Poinsettia is one of the unique plants for both indoor and outdoor spaces. Specifically, it is a part of Christmas decoration when the winter arrives. Also, this flowering plant has a few well-known names, for instance, la flor de Nochebuena and Cuetlaxochitl. Its scientific name is Euphorbia Pulcherrima. In addition to this, it is native to Central America and Mexico. Above all, “Poinsettia Day” is on 12 December which is the special day of this houseplant.
General information
Poinsettia is a colorful shrub or small tree whose branches are small has typically red bracts and green foliage. When looking closely at the plant, it has tiny yellow flower heads. They open right on the center of the red bracts. Before deciding to get this houseplant, you should be sure that it doesn’t bloom. This way, you can make longer the flowering span. This plant could reach up to 18 inches (45 cm) when well-cared. Also, it is a perennial plant like Croton Plant and Ornamental Peppers. According to some sources, it isn’t apparent if this houseplant is poisonous or not. But some cultivars of this houseplant are poisonous or certain parts of it are poisonous.
How to Care for Euphorbia pulcherrima
Sunlight
Direct sunlight always poses a threat to this houseplant. For that reason, it is necessary to put that plant in a semi-shade location.
Watering
The potting soil should remain moist. To keep it like that, between waterings shouldn’t be too long or too short.
Humidity
The high humidity helps it thrive better. To increase the humidity rate indoors, you may use wet pebbles trays, automated humidifiers, and water sprays.
Temperature
65°F – 70°F (18°C − 21°C) is the optimal temperature range for growing Poinsettia Plant. Below 60°F (15,5°C) could be gradually dangerous for this houseplant. According to the USDA plant hardiness map, it grows better in zones.
Soil Type
Peat-based soils are best. But you may make your potting mixes by adjusting the proportion. Also, evacuating the excess water is vital. For that reason, opening the drainage holes properly and using the soil with high porosity is crucial.
Planter Type
Small planters are appropriate for the shrub-type plant in general. For example, you may take an animal planter for it.
Fertilizer
There are mainly four types of fertilizers. Here, they are granular, liquid, slow-releasing, and quick-releasing. For such plants, you may apply water-soluble fertilizers monthly in the plant’s growing seasons (spring and summer).
Propagation
Stem-cutting is the best propagation way for it. Cut a branch with at least one leaf node. After planting it in a pot, it is going to develop over time.
Repotting
Shrub-type plants don’t need transplanting. Even if it needs, doing it once would be enough. Before transplanting the plant, you should protect it (specifically roots) from the cold.
Common Problems
Root rot: Overwatering and lack of enough air cause this problem in general. The excess water drowns roots. In a short time, the plant dies.
Discoloration of leaves: Deficiency of the necessary nutrients, lack of light lead to such cases.
Pest infestation: Red spiders, mealy bugs, aphids, mites, whiteflies, and so on destroy the plant when dry and poor conditions occur.
Suggestions for problems
To prevent root rot, you should use high-quality soil. Also, you should follow regular watering. Pale-colored leaves aren’t showy. To avoid this problem, you should use rich soil. In addition to this, the plant should get filtered sunlight. When it comes to pest infestation, you may use herbal oils, pesticides, bug repellents, and alcohol-based wipes.
Suggestions for the beginners
Beginners miss a few points about plant growing. One of these is putting the plant outdoor early. The young plant hasn’t any strength to weather the harsh conditions. Another common mistake is overwatering. To prevent that, beginners should make a good watering routine.
