Christmas poinsettias are one of the classic sights of the season, and they seem to be everywhere we look! From church sanctuaries to shopping malls, the star-shaped flower with vivid leaves is synonymous with the spirit of the holiday. If you love to decorate your home with poinsettias – or if you have received a plant as a gift – you’ll be happy to hear that with a little care, they will beautifully bloom throughout the season and beyond. At Nanz & Kraft Florists, we love everything about the Christmas season, and we want to make sure that your poinsettias stay looking merry and bright as long as possible.

• Christmas poinsettias will last long after the festivities, keeping their color for weeks when properly maintained.
• The vivid “petals” of the flower are actually its leaves, called bracts. The yellow center of the poinsettia is the true flower.
• The poinsettia should be kept away from either warm or cold drafts – either will cause the plant to wilt.
• Although the plants like sunny windows, do not allow the plant to touch a cold window, as it will begin to drop leaves.
• When the surface of the soil feels dry, water it well (until the water drains out). Always dump excess water, as sitting in water will cause the roots to rot. Check for water every day, as indoor environments can dry it out.
• Poinsettias thrive in temperatures between 60-70 degrees F during the day but should be moved to a cooler room at night. Remember, your poinsettia plant prefers humidity when possible.

If you would like to keep the plant until the following year, it will take some work – but it will be worth it to see the flower blooming brightly again! Follow the above instructions until the spring, then allow your poinsettias to go a little drier between watering. In May, cut about 4 inches from each stem and begin fertilizing. In the summer, the plant should be moved outside to a cool, shady spot. When new branches begin to form, pinch an inch from existing branches. Keep fertilizing, making sure that the soil is moist when you do so. Once the outdoor temperature drops below 65 degrees again, bring the poinsettia indoors. From October until Christmas, keep the poinsettia in a completely dark place for 12 hours per night, and in sunlight during the day. With enough nightly “sleep”, you’ll begin seeing them flower again in time for Christmas.

For beautiful Christmas poinsettias, holiday floral arrangements, and seasonal gifts – come by and see us at Nanz & Kraft Florists. We are your source in Louisville for all things Christmas.