Have you ever wondered why poinsettias are so closely tied to Christmas? Every Holiday season you see the garden centers filled with these pretty red or white flowers and they are bought for homes, churches, offices and storefronts to add a festive touch.
The tradition of poinsettias dates back to 16th-century Mexico, where a legend tells of a poor child who wanted to bring a gift to baby Jesus at church. Having no money, the child gathered weeds from the roadside, which miraculously bloomed into vibrant red flowers. These “Flowers of the Holy Night” caught on as a Christmas tradition and were later popularized in the U.S. by Joel Poinsett, the first U.S. ambassador to Mexico, who introduced the plant in the early 1800s. Today, poinsettias are the unofficial flower symbol of Christmas.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Poinsettia
When purchasing a poinsettia, look for plants with healthy, deep-green leaves and brightly colored bracts. Avoid plants with drooping leaves, as this can indicate overwatering or poor care. Make sure the plant is wrapped well when taking it home in cold weather, as poinsettias are sensitive to temperature changes and drafts.
How to Care for Your Poinsettia During the Holidays
- Placement: Keep your poinsettia in a well-lit area but out of direct sunlight. Avoid placing it near heat sources or drafty windows.
- Watering: Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering. Be careful not to let the pot sit in standing water.
- Temperature: Poinsettias thrive in temperatures between 65–70°F during the day and slightly cooler at night.
Keeping Your Poinsettia After Christmas
If you’d like to keep your poinsettia after the holiday season, it’s possible!
- After the holidays: Continue to care for it as a houseplant until spring.
- In spring: Cut the plant back to about 4-6 inches and repot it with fresh soil.
- In summer: Move it outdoors to a shaded location. Pinch back new growth in early summer to encourage bushiness.
- Reblooming: In fall, begin the process of re-blooming by giving the plant 14–16 hours of darkness daily for about 8 weeks. This simulates the shorter days poinsettias need to set blooms.
Are Poinsettias Poisonous to Pets and Children?
The good news is poinsettias are not as toxic as once believed. While they can cause mild irritation or upset stomach if ingested, they’re generally safe to have around children and pets. However, it’s still wise to keep them out of reach, as the plant’s sap can be mildly irritating to the skin or mouth. If you’re concerned about your curious pets or little ones, consider displaying poinsettias on elevated surfaces or in hanging baskets.
Happy Holidays!
Karen
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