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Poinsettias are a seasonal addition many people choose for their homes as Christmas approaches. However, the surprising thing about these houseplants is that although they are a common winter feature, they are actually tropical plants.
As such, poinsettias have a strict set of care requirements which, if not followed, could mean your plant may not make it to Christmas.
To keep them happy throughout the festivities, it is important you ensure your poinsettia gets enough sunlight, but not too much.
Poinsettias enjoy bright, indirect light to keep their leaves happy and healthy.
They also like to be watered gently, but again, not too often.
READ MORE: The common household fruit to keep houseplants healthy
Overwatering your poinsettia
Poinsettias, like every plant, need water in order to survive.
However, these picky plants need the amount of fluid they are fed to be just right in order to thrive.
While it may be tempting to overwater wilting leaves, this could actually be detrimental to your plant’s health.
Ideally, you should water your poinsettia enough that the soil is evenly moist.
If your plant is housed in a decorative container that does not have drainage holes, consider adding some small rocks to the bottom of the container to help with drainage.
Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Leaving your poinsettia in a room that is too cold – or too hot
Poinsettias love to be in a mild to warm environment and therefore they are not a great plant for keeping outdoors in the winter months.
Even within your home, it is important to keep poinsettias away from any area they may become exposed to a cold draught – such as by a window or door.
Poinsettias are at their happiest between 15C and 23C (55F to 75F).
However, as much as they love the warmth, there’s also the risk of overheating your plant.
Try not to keep them within close proximity to a radiator or heat source which may singe your festive flora’s stunning leaves.
Not giving your poinsettia enough sunlight
Given that their native home is Southern Mexico, it’s no surprise they love the sunshine.
Though they thrive best in indirect sunlight, you should still place your plant in an area that receives plenty of bright rays.
Be careful not to pop them directly in front of a window, though, as direct rays can burn their leaves.
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