MOORHEAD, Minn. (11/17/2011) – Stores are filling up with numerous varieties of poinsettias ranging in color from red, white, salmon, plum, red with white splashes, and burgundy, to name a few. There are also different sizes of poinsettias available ranging in height from three to five inches up to four or five feet. With so many choices it can be a real challenge to select just one.

Choosing the perfect poinsettia is largely based on personal preference. The smaller sizes are great for a center piece on the dinner table because everyone can see over them. The larger sizes are great for a coffee table or on the floor where height is not a factor. When selecting a poinsettia check a few colored bracts (modified leaves) as well as some of the green leaves to make sure they are free of leaf spots and insects. Before leaving the store, make sure the poinsettia is properly covered using a plastic bag filled with warm air. Chilling injury can occur if poinsettias are directly exposed to temperatures below 50 degrees F.

Poinsettias will remain healthy and colorful longer if they are placed in a sunny location away from heat vents and cold drafts. The ambient temperature should be around 65 to 70 degrees F. The soil should be kept moist but not saturated. Water poinsettias thoroughly when the soil surface is dry and make sure all excess water is removed from the saucer. Poinsettias can be fertilized monthly using an all purpose houseplant fertilizer mixed half strength.

With a little work poinsettias can be forced to re-bloom the following Christmas. In late April or early May prune the plant back to eight inches and continue to keep in a sunny location. Once the danger of frost has passed and night temperatures have warmed place poinsettia outdoors in a location that is protected from the midday sun. If necessary, transplant into a pot that is two or three inches bigger in diameter than the original pot. Add fresh potting soil that is similar to the original soil.

Bring the poinsettia indoors when night temperatures begin to cool and place in a sunny location. Starting the middle of September or early October the plant needs to be kept in total darkness for 14 hours each night. This can be done by placing the poinsettia in a closet, cupboard, basement, or by placing a black trash bag over the plant; any method that will exclude all light is acceptable. Each day return the poinsettia to its sunny location. This routine needs to be done daily with out fail until the bracts have turned color, usually eight to ten weeks. Any disruption to this routine could cause bract coloration to be delayed or completely absent.

If you have questions regarding this article please call me at the University of Minnesota Extension office, Clay County at 218-299-5020, 1-800-299-5020 or email me at nels1657@umn.edu. 

Check out our website at http://www.co.clay.mn.us/Depts/Extensio/Extensio.htm

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Any use of this article must include the byline or following credit line: Randy Nelson is a University of Minnesota Extension Educator in Clay County.