As winter arrives, many plant lovers welcome the vibrant poinsettia into their homes, but few realise this festive favourite can be kept alive to flower again next Christmas with one simple monthly job.
Choosing and Protecting Your Poinsettia
Garden expert Sean Lade, director of Easy Garden Irrigation, emphasises that success starts at the point of purchase. You should select plants that have been kept indoors, away from draughty shop entrances, as exposure to temperatures below 13 degrees Celsius can cause irreversible damage.
"They are susceptible to fluctuations in temperature and will quickly start to wilt if kept too cold or in a draft," Lade explains. He advises ensuring the plant is well-wrapped for the journey home, as even a brief walk to the car in freezing weather can harm its fragile red bracts.
Perfect Placement and Watering
Once home, position your poinsettia in a bright spot away from direct harsh sunlight, draughts, and direct heat sources like radiators. When it comes to hydration, the rule is moderation. Water only enough to keep the compost damp, avoiding both parched soil and waterlogged roots.
During the initial winter period, a newly bought poinsettia typically won't require additional feeding, as they are usually sold in pre-enriched compost.
The Key Monthly Task for Re-blooming
If you wish to keep your plant beyond the festive season and encourage it to bloom again next year, a regular feeding schedule is crucial. Claire Bishop, senior houseplant buyer at Dobbies, reveals the essential monthly task.
"Your poinsettia will benefit from monthly feedings to keep it thriving long into the new year," Bishop discloses. Using a liquid plant food throughout spring and summer is key to encouraging next Christmas's display.
She specifically recommends a high-potassium fertiliser, such as tomato feed, applied once a month. This consistent nourishment supports the plant's growth cycle, setting the stage for it to produce its stunning red bracts when the days shorten again next winter.
With this straightforward monthly commitment, you can transform your poinsettia from a short-lived festive decoration into a long-lasting houseplant that rewards you with colour year after year.
