December 23, 2024, 5:12 am | Read time: 2 minutes
The poinsettia is a plant that is a must-have in winter–whether in classic red, pink, or even white. However, it usually delights us for only a short time before it wilts after Christmas. In fact, it is actually a perennial plant.
Poinsettias captivate us anew every year. Generally, their care is not particularly complicated, but a few points should be noted if you want to enjoy the beautiful plant beyond just the holiday season. myHOMEBOOK highlights four common mistakes in caring for poinsettias.
1. Mistake: The poinsettia is in too dark a spot
The poinsettia originally comes from South America. It gets a lot of light there, and it needs the same here. Often, it is placed in a dark spot, such as on a dresser. The best location is by a window, but not directly against the glass, as it can be too cold for it in winter. However, make sure there is no heater underneath.
Note: Yes, the poinsettia needs a lot of light, but it’s important to find the right balance. If it gets too much light, it loses its festive color and the leaves turn green again.
Also interesting: The colorful leaves of the poinsettia are not flowers
2. Mistake: The poinsettia can’t handle the temperatures
Regarding temperatures, the poinsettia is somewhat finicky. A common mistake is placing it in a room that is too warm. Ideal temperatures for it are between 64 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything above that results in falling leaves.
Also interesting: 3 common mistakes in caring for amaryllis
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3. Mistake: Overwatering
The poinsettia likes regular watering, but not too much. It can handle a few days of dry soil better than sitting in water. Waterlogging, like excessive temperatures, leads to falling leaves.
4. Mistake: The poinsettia is in a draft
The biggest mistake you can make with a poinsettia is exposing it to drafts. The result is evident just a few days later when it starts dropping its leaves. Regular ventilation is very important in winter, but make sure to move the plant to another spot beforehand.