by Lars atomic number 1
As the vacation time of year approaches , the vibrant red and white hues of Euphorbia pulcherrima begin to adorn homes , grocery stores , and nurseries . Renowned for their festal prayer , these works , if properly cared for , can add a cutaneous senses of holiday cheer well beyond the season . Experts from Texas A&M AgriLife share priceless tips to ascertain your poinsettias thrive .
Bill McKinley , the Benz Endowed Chair in Floral Design , and Navreet Kaur Mahal , Ph.D. , both from Texas A&M ’s Department of Horticultural Sciences , provide a comprehensive guide to selecting and maintaining these care for holiday plants .

Selecting the Perfect Poinsettia
When choosing a poinsettia , McKinley rede focalize on the plant ’s center . “ The little center of the poinsettia plant , the rightful bloom , should n’t be bleary , ” McKinley explains . “ They should be tight and yellowish . ” This advice is crucial in identifying a healthy plant that will last through the festive season .
Ensuring Plant Longevity
A common error with poinsettias is overwatering . McKinley suggests a thrifty approach : remove the works from its container to allow water to run out before supplant it . This preclude source rot , a common return with these plants .
Ideal Conditions for Thriving Poinsettias
Positioning is central for poinsettia wellness . McKinley recommends shiny but collateral sunlight and avoiding extremes in temperature . Mahal add , “ The ideal room temperature for industrial plant is between 65 - 70 degree . Avoid exposing them to temperatures below 50 degrees . ”
Poinsettias and Pets: Debunking Myths
wayward to popular impression , poinsettias are not significantly toxic to pets . “ The viscid white sap can irritate the mouthpiece and cause mild gastrointestinal symptom , ” Mahal clarifies , “ But they are not a menace to animals . ”
Year-Round Poinsettia Care
Poinsettias can last beyond the holiday time of year . McKinley advises trim the plant post - holidays and maintaining it in worthy conditions for annual blooms . “ In late October and the first part of November , your plant will begin to show color , ” he aver , “ And by Christmas , it should be in full bloom . ”
With these practiced tips , you’re able to ensure your poinsettias not only survive but thrive , bringing joy and colouring to your vacation celebrations and beyond .