The appearance of poinsettia in stores is a sure sign that Christmas is on its way. Poinsettias come in red, pink, white and lime green, they add a festive wow factor to any home or living space. The flowers themselves are tiny and yellow, and it is in fact the poinsettia foliage that is coloured; the leaves around the flowers, called bracts, change colour when the plant is in flower. Because poinsettia naturally flower in winter, growers in New Zealand have to place them in light-controlled facilities to encourage them to flower in summer.
Planting Calendar
Prepare
Position
Poinsettia prefer a warm well lit position out of direct sunlight and cold draughts.
Soil
Poinsettia should be planted into Kings House Plant Mix
Care
Watering
Poinsettias need to be watered regularly during the warmer months. Make sure to allow the top 2 cm of soil to dry out before re-watering. Never allow the pot to sit in water.
Feeding
Feed with Kings House Plant Liquid Food. When using sprays, chemicals or fertilisers always read the label and follow the instructions. Apply sprays in the evening to avoid harming beneficial insects.
Pruning
When grown inside Poinsettia do not need pruning.
General Care
If you’d like to enjoy your poinsettias after the festive season, cut them back in early spring to encourage new growth and plant outside in a sunny sheltered position. Your poinsettias will adapt to the cooler climate and flower again in winter.
Beginner Tip
Take care when handling poinsettia, they have white milky sap which can irritate the skin
Expert Tip
Eventually your red leaves will become green. To encourage new red leaves place your poinsettia in a dark cupboard overnight and bring out into light during the day.
Tip
Poinsettia have a milky sap, when the leaves have been in direct sun they will burn and turn a greyish colour. Take care taking them home in your car to keep them out of the sun.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water my Poinsettia?
Poinsettias need to be watered regularly during the warmer months. Make sure to allow the top 2 cm of soil to dry out before re-watering. Never allow the pot to sit in water.
When should I prune my Poinsettia?
If grown indoors pruning isn't necessary. If growing outdoors, prune in early spring when new growth begins. Cut back the stems to about 10-15 cm from the base.
Do Poinsettias need fertiliser?
Feed with Kings House Plant Liquid Food. When using sprays, chemicals or fertilisers always read the label and follow the instructions. Apply sprays in the evening to avoid harming beneficial insects.
Are Poinsettias toxic to pets?
Poinsettias are mildly toxic to pets. They can cause mild irritation or nausea if ingested, so keep them out of reach.
What should I do if my Poinsettia drops its leaves?
Leaf drop can occur due to sudden temperature changes or drafts. Move the plant to a stable environment with consistent temperatures.
