19 December 2023 , 20:00
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When it comes to festive plants, nothing quite compares to the classic poinsettia, which boasts signature red petals and earthy green leaves - but many Brits struggle to care for the humble houseplant.
Garden centres and supermarket aisles are littered with the seasonal flower, which have been a Christmas staple since the 17th century. However, green-fingered folk often notice that the leaves have dropped or started to wilt ahead of December 25.
Fortunately, garden expert Michael Griffiths has shared his handy hacks to guarantee the foliage flourishes into 2024. Taking to TikTok, under the undername @themediterraneangardneer, Michael said: "This is the classic Christmas flower, but does your poinsettia always die really quickly? If so, here’s some tips to help them survive."
When purchasing the popular plant, the garden expert urges shoppers to check for wilting leaves, as this can often indicate that it has been stored in too-cold conditions. According to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), poinsettias require a minimum temperature of 13 to 16°C to avoid physiological shock.
It is recommended that they are protected on the journey home, this can be executed by placing wrapping over the top of the plant, or covered by a bag to protect it from the frosty temperatures. Gardeners World added: "Don't leave your poinsettia in the car for longer than is absolutely necessary as temperatures can quickly tumble and your poinsettia will suffer."
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The second point that Michael highlighted is to avoid buying the flower if it has been displayed by a door or a petrol station forecourt, as they "just won’t last". He added: "When you get it home, put it in a bright draught-free position that is out of direct sunlight and only water it when the top of the compost is starting to feel dry."
Gardeners World elaborated that the festive flower should be kept away from windows, where temperatures can "significantly" drop at night, and from doorways and open fireplaces which can be particularly draughty. The site also lifted the lid on how to get the poinsettia to flower again in the new year, which is described as a "challenge".
It suggested feeding it liquid plant food after Christmas, that is high in potassium, such as tomato food. When April arrives, Gardeners World advises pruning the poinsettia back to about 10cm, and leave at a temperature of 13°C. In May, repot the houseplant into a slightly larger pot, "with fresh, peat-free, loam-based compost", and store in a draught-free spot out of direct sunlight.
It writes: "Poinsettias develop flowers and colourful bracts when day length decreases. This occurs naturally in December, but to encourage flowering by Christmas, you'll need to mimic short day length by moving your poinsettia into a dark cupboard for 12 hours each day, from November."