poinsettia

For optimal results, water your poinsettia regularly to keep the soil lightly moist. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, generally once every 5-7 days. Water until the soil feels wet to a depth of 3-4 inches. Allow the excess water to drain out, then discard any water left in the saucer. Do not allow the plant to sit in water or become overly saturated. Avoid sudden fluctuations in soil moisture, as this can cause yellow and wilting leaves.

Poinsettias require a fairly bright light setting for healthy growing. Ideally, this plant should have indirect sunlight for half the day, from 6 to 8 hours of indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight may scorch and burn the leaves of this species, so it is best to keep it in a place where it will receive bright, indirect light for 4-6 hours during the day. During the winter months, it can receive some light from a windowsill or near a bright window; however, it is best to provide artificial light of 14-16 hours a day for optimal growth.

Well-drained

Hardiness zone 9-11.

Poinsettia should be pruned annually in early spring, before they produce new growth, to help keep them full and shapely. Prune the stems back to about 6 inches in height, cutting just above where 2 leaves meet. This will encourage branching and help maintain a more bushy shape. The stems can also be pinched back lightly throughout the season to encourage fuller growth. Remove any yellowing or dead leaves as necessary, but do not over-prune. Poinsettia plants usually do not require heavy pruning and should not require pruning more than once a year.

Seed Propagation, Greenwood Cuttings