(Continued from last week)
Last week I received the most marvellous marble and velvet red Poinsettias plants along with several Christmas cards with beautiful red poinsettias covering the front. I must say both of my plants are doing very well.
Poinsettia potted plants are available for sale at plant shops with masses of bright red bracts, all ready for the Christmas holidays, so now is the time to make your purchases.
Make sure you know how to look after them and enjoy them to the fullest. Water the soil only, and allow the soil to dry out before watering again.
If you like a challenge, plant your poinsettia out in February after all the red bracts have fallen off, or alternatively, you can cut the bracts back. Repot the plant by removing some of the old soil and then add some regular potting soil. Fertilize with Miracle Gro All Purpose Plant Food once every two weeks.
The plant will turn red naturally approximately 2 to 3 times per year, but not necessarily for Christmas. The plant must have 12 hours of uninterrupted darkness for several weeks prior to Christmas for it to go red at that time.
Warning: Stems and bracts if broken give off a milky sap. At all costs avoid contact with the eyes. Have a Happy Christmas.
Until next week, happy gardening!
