QUESTION: What is the best way to water poinsettias? How do I know if I’m giving them too much water? -Brian T.
ANSWER: Too much water is just as bad as too little when it comes to irrigating your poinsettia plants. Check to see if your poinsettias need water daily by touching the topsoil around the plant.
If it is dry to the touch, the plant could use a drink. If it is slightly moist, it’s not time to water yet. Overwatering is one of the biggest errors in poinsettia care!
When you first get your poinsettias home, check the pots they came in to make sure there is a good drainage hole, and remove the decorative foil wrapper from the base of the planter. Insufficient drainage and decorative foils can trap water inside the containers and lead to issues with rot.
The best way to water your poinsettias is to bring the plant to the kitchen sink and give the plant a slow drink until you see water start to drain out of the bottom of the planter. Keep the pot in the sink until the excess moisture has drained out and then set the pot on a plate or tray. Never let the pot sit in water, as poinsettias will not abide wet feet and rot issues will quickly kill the plants. As soon as the container has drained sufficiently, put your poinsettias back in their chosen locations, where they get plenty of sun and are protected from temperature shifts.Â
I have a poinsettia that is 4ft tall but has never bloomed since the day i got it and it’s way to big to put hidden in the dark, what do you suggest?
I have heard you can bag your plant in clear plastic and put an apple to rot on the soil. They methane released by the rotting fruit causes plants to bloom. Google it to confirm.