It’s Christmas when most of us rush to the store to buy a red poinsettia in a foil- wrapped pot. But this year I’d encourage you to think beyond tradition and outside of the pot!
Experiment with a new color or color variation. While red is most prominent, poinsettias come in other colors such as cream, pink, coral, orange, and plum. Rather than the solid color, try a newer variety that is marbled, speckled, or splashed.
If the solid red flower (which technically is a leaf) is still your favorite, other leaves on the plant may offer variety. There are variegated poinsettias, where the green leaves are a mixture of green and cream. And to add to the possibilities, some poinsettias come in a miniature size or may possess flowers that curl inward resembling a rose.
Whatever you choose, the most important thing is to select a healthy plant. Look for plants with bright green foliage all along the stem and a lot of brightly colored leaves on each stem. Avoid droopy or wilted plants.
Check out the “flower.” While most of us think of the colored part as the flower, this is a leaf or what florists call “bracts.” The true flower is in the center of the bract and should be green- or red-tipped, indicating the plant is less developed. Avoid plants with yellow pollen on the flower as they are more developed and will not last as long.
Carefully wrap and shield the poinsettia when you transport it home. Poinsettias that have experienced cold shock will wilt and drop their leaves. At home, place the poinsettia in a 60-70° F location with high relative humidity and maximum sunlight.
Be adventurous! Try using poinsettias as a cut flower for short-term arrangements. The secret is to cut the stem between the nodes and seal the stem to prevent the milky sap from leaching out. Sealing can be accomplished by dipping the cut end in boiling water for 30 seconds or searing it with a flame. Then place it immediately in cold water.
There are two basic ways to use the cut flowers – in a floral water pick or in a vase. When in a pick, the poinsettia can be wired onto an indoor wreath or placed in wicker baskets or planter boxes with other plants or holiday decorations. Cut poinsettias also look great in hanging macrame vases or in vases on the table.
This holiday use your imagination and have fun experimenting with your poinsettia. Season’s Greetings!