Poinsettias are native to South America, where they soak up that warm, tropical sun all year long. Here in the States, we usually treat them as indoor houseplants. They have a bit of a reputation for being “divas” because they’re pretty picky about their environment, but once you know what they like, they’re actually quite manageable!
The Perfect Spot for Your Poinsettia
Since these beauties hit the shelves during the chilly winter months and have zero tolerance for frost, keeping them warm is key. However, you don’t want to stick them on a windowsill directly above a blasting heater. To keep your Poinsettia happy, look for a spot that checks these boxes:
- Bright light, but away from direct, scorching sunlight
- No drafty hallways or chilly windows
- Good humidity levels
- Well-draining soil (no “wet feet”!)
Winter days can be pretty gloomy, and sometimes a dark room just doesn’t provide enough natural light. If your plant looks a bit sad, a simple daylight lamp can work wonders. To keep the air from getting too dry, try misting your plant occasionally or placing a small bowl of water nearby to boost the humidity.
Watering Your Poinsettia the Right Way
If there’s one thing Poinsettias are sensitive about, it’s their watering schedule. As a general rule, only reach for the watering can when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. When you do water, use lukewarm water. The biggest “no-no” is letting the plant sit in standing water. If the roots stay soggy, they’ll start to rot, and the plant won’t be able to take up nutrients.
To avoid this, check the saucer or decorative pot about 15 minutes after watering and pour out any excess. If you’re repotting your plant, you can create a built-in safety net: put a layer of clay pebbles or broken terra cotta shards at the bottom of the pot, cover it with a bit of landscape fleece, and then add your potting soil. This creates a drainage layer that helps move moisture away from the roots.
Can Poinsettias Go Outside?
Believe it or not, you can actually move your Poinsettia outdoors during the summer! Just wait until the nighttime temperatures stay consistently above 50°F (10°C). Give the plant a fresh trim and some new soil, then find a bright, warm spot on your porch or patio. Just make sure it’s protected from the harsh midday sun, heavy rain, and high winds. If it gets exceptionally hot, a little extra shade will go a long way in keeping your Poinsettia thriving until the holidays roll around again.
