Poinsettia care: watering, light and repotting
Also called christmas star · Euphorbia pulcherrima · Euphorbiaceae family
6 d in winter
How often to water the poinsettia?
Allow about 6 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 6 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
Dislikes cold and draughts, even on the way home from the shop. Let the surface dry out between waterings.
What light does it need?
The poinsettia likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every year, ideally in May, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from April to September, feeding every 3 weeks is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: 1–2 ft (30–60 cm).
Toxic to pets and children. Keep this plant out of reach and, if it is eaten, contact a vet or a poison control centre.
Common problems
Falling leaves
Cause: Cold, a draught or too much water. What to do: Keep it at 64–68 °F (18–20 °C) and empty the saucer.
Stays green the following year
Cause: Nights too short. What to do: From October, give it 14 hours of complete darkness a day for eight weeks.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the poinsettia?
About every 6 days in spring and summer, and every 6 days in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the poinsettia?
The poinsettia likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Should you mist the poinsettia?
There's no need: indoor air suits it. Wetting its leaves for no reason can even encourage disease.
When should you repot the poinsettia?
Every year, ideally in May, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the poinsettia safe?
The poinsettia is toxic to pets and to children if eaten. Keep the plant out of reach and, if it's eaten, call a vet or a poison control centre.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Fairly: the poinsettia needs a little attention, mostly with watering and light. Nothing complicated with a reminder at the right time.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.