Poinsettias are a holiday favorite, bringing vibrant red, white, or pink colors into homes during the festive season. While many see them as temporary decorations, with the right care, poinsettias can thrive well beyond Christmas—especially in Florida’s climate. Here’s how to keep your poinsettias looking great long after the holiday season.

1. Location, Location, Location
Poinsettias love bright, indirect sunlight.
- Place them near a window where they can receive 6-8 hours of light daily.
- Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
- Keep them away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioning vents, as these can stress the plant.
2. Keep Them Comfortable
Florida’s mild winter climate is ideal for poinsettias.
- Maintain indoor temperatures between 65°F and 75°F during the day.
- Night temperatures should not drop below 60°F.
- If you place them outside, ensure they’re sheltered from wind and cold snaps.
3. Water Wisely
Poinsettias prefer moist but not soggy soil.
- Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
- Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, which can lead to root rot.
4. Feed Your Poinsettia
After the holidays, give your poinsettia a little nutritional boost.
- Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
- This helps the plant maintain vibrant leaves and supports future growth.
5. Prune for Perfection
Once the colorful bracts fade, it’s time for a trim.
- Cut back the plant to about 6 inches in early spring.
- This encourages bushier growth and prepares the plant for blooming later in the year.
6. Transition to Outdoors
In Florida, poinsettias can thrive outdoors year-round with proper care.
- Transplant them into your garden in late spring when there’s no risk of frost.
- Choose a location with partial sunlight and well-draining soil.
7. Prepare for Next Year
To encourage poinsettias to rebloom for the next holiday season:
- Beginning in late September, give them 14-16 hours of complete darkness each night for 8-10 weeks.
- During the day, provide bright light and continue regular care.
- This mimics the shorter days and longer nights of winter, prompting the colorful bracts to return.
Bonus Tip: Keep Them Safe
Poinsettias are mildly toxic to pets if ingested. If you have curious animals, place the plant in a safe location out of reach.
With these simple steps, you can enjoy your poinsettias long after the holiday decorations come down. Their lasting beauty is a reminder that the joy of Christmas can carry on year-round! Stop by to get some before we close for the holidays!