How to Care for Poinsettias and Keep Them Looking Beautiful

With their striking red leaves and rich green foliage, poinsettias are one of the most popular plants for adding colour to the home at Christmas.

Although they have a reputation for being difficult, poinsettias are relatively easy to care for when they are kept warm, positioned somewhere bright and watered correctly.

Protect your poinsettia from the cold

Poinsettias are sensitive to sudden changes in temperature. When taking one home, make sure it is wrapped carefully and avoid leaving it in a cold car.

Once indoors, keep it away from cold windows, draughty doorways and frequently opened doors.

Choose a warm, bright position

Place your poinsettia somewhere with plenty of bright, indirect light. A living room, dining room or bright hallway can work well.

The plant will be happiest at a steady room temperature of approximately 15°C to 22°C. Avoid positioning it beside radiators, fireplaces or other strong sources of heat, as these can dry the leaves.

Water carefully

Check the compost regularly and water when the surface begins to feel dry. Use a small amount of room-temperature water and allow any excess to drain away.

Never allow the pot to stand in water. If your poinsettia is displayed inside a decorative cover or foil wrapping, remove it for watering and let it drain before putting it back.

Both overwatering and allowing the compost to become completely dry can cause the leaves to yellow or fall.

Avoid moving it unnecessarily

Once you have found a warm and bright position, try to leave your poinsettia there. Repeatedly moving it between rooms with different temperatures may cause stress and leaf drop.

Keep it away from ripening fruit

Ripening fruit naturally releases ethylene gas, which can cause poinsettia leaves to age and fall more quickly. Avoid displaying your plant immediately beside a fruit bowl.

Why is my poinsettia losing its leaves?

Leaf drop is usually caused by:

• Cold draughts

• Sudden temperature changes

• Too much or too little water

• Standing water around the roots

• Dry heat from radiators

• Insufficient light

Check the plant’s position and compost before changing its care routine. Once the underlying problem has been corrected, the remaining foliage should stay healthier.

Are poinsettias safe around pets?

Poinsettias are not considered highly poisonous, but their milky sap can irritate the skin and mouth. Eating the plant may also cause mild stomach upset.

Keep poinsettias away from curious children and pets, and wash your hands after handling any damaged stems.

Enjoy festive colour throughout Christmas

Keep your poinsettia warm, give it plenty of bright light and water only when the compost begins to dry. With the right care, it should remain colourful throughout Christmas and well into the new year.

Visit Coletta & Tyson Garden Centre in Woodmansey, near Beverley and Hull, to discover our seasonal plants, festive decorations and everything you need to make your home feel special this Christmas.