Poinsettia: how to care for the Christmas star so that it boasts lush and bright flowers

The poinsettia, also called the Christmas star, is a symbol of celebration and prosperity. This bright flower with red, pink, or yellow bracts blooms in December, on the eve of Christmas, and is considered one of the favorite ornamental plants for winter.

However, to preserve its beauty, you need to follow certain rules of care. OBOZ.UA has collected expert advice on how to care for the poinsettia plant.

Before buying a poinsettia, you should pay attention to the condition of the flower: bright bracts, fresh green leaves without spots and mold indicate its health. It is important to refuse plants that have been kept at temperatures below +15°C for a long time, as this can lead to discoloration, leaf fall, and death of the root system.

Main rules

At home, the poinsettia feels best at a temperature of +18-23°C. It should be protected from drafts and excessive heat, which can cause the leaves to fall off. Water the plant moderately, through a tray, avoiding overdrying the soil. To increase the humidity in the room, you can use humidifiers or indoor fountains.

After flowering, the plant goes into a dormant period that lasts about two months. During this time, watering is reduced and the temperature is lowered to +12-15°C. At the end of March, the stems are cut off, leaving 5-6 shoots, and transplanted into a new substrate with good drainage.

Fertilization

Poinsettia is fed with complex fertilizers every two weeks. It is especially important to provide the plant with calcium for the formation of strong stems, as well as phosphorus and potassium, the lack of which can lead to leaf fall and chlorosis.

Propagation

The plant is best propagated in April or August by cuttings. Cuttings with several leaves are planted in a peat and sand substrate under greenhouse conditions. Rooting at a temperature of +23-25°C takes about a month.

How to make the plant bloom

For a poinsettia to bloom, it needs a short daylight hours - no more than 12 hours. To do this, the flower can be covered with opaque caps or moved to a dark place. The right temperature (+17-20°C) and sufficient lighting contribute to the formation of bright flowers.

How to deal with pests

Poinsettias can attract aphids, whiteflies, or spider mites. Special mixtures are used to combat them. Regular showers will also help to avoid pests.

Caring for cut shoots

Cut poinsettia shoots are often used to create winter bouquets. To keep them fresh, treat the cut with hot water and then add crushed charcoal.

The Christmas star will become a bright accent of winter decor and fill your home with festive mood. Proper care will preserve its beauty for a long time and even prepare it for flowering next season.

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