There Christmas staralso known as poinsettia (name derived from the first US ambassador to Mexico, Joel Roberts Poinsett, who introduced the plant to the USA in 1825) and which responds to the scientific name of Euphorbia pulcherrimais a plant belonging to the family of Euphorbiaceaea true icon of the Christmas holidays.
Native to Mexico and Guatemala, it has bright red bracts, often confused with flowers, which surround the true inflorescences, small and yellowish. In addition to the classic red, varieties include pink, white and mottled bracts.
But how to take care of the Poinsettia at the end of the holidays? And where to place it to guarantee its long life?
During the holidays: the first step for optimal care
During the Christmas period, the Christmas Star requires specific attention to maintain its beauty. To begin with, choose a bright but not too hot place: the ideal is a room at around 18°C, away from heat sources such as radiators or stoves. Placing it next to a well-lit window, but without direct exposure to sunlight, allows the bracts to maintain their bright color for longer.
The poinsettia particularly suffers from temperature changes and cold air currents, so avoid areas such as the entrance or near doors that often open outwards (closed terraces and verandas that are not too cold could be valid alternatives).
As regards watering, it is essential not to overdo it: touch the soil and water only when it is almost dry. Make sure that the water does not stagnate in the saucer, discarding it after about half an hour. Furthermore, a fertilizer enriched with microelements can be a valid ally to prevent any deficiencies during this important period.
Post-Christmas care: tackling defoliation
When the holidays end, many people find themselves dealing with the loss of bracts and leaves, a completely normal process. This phase, which begins at the end of winter, marks a sort of “reset” of the plant.
At this point, prune the branches about 15 cm from the ground. Pay attention to the white, milky sap that comes out of the cuts, as it can cause skin irritation, and therefore always use protective gloves when handling the plant.
The poinsettia should be moved to a well-lit environment but without direct exposure to the sun, as intense rays could damage it. With the right balance of light and mild temperatures, you can encourage the appearance of new shoots already in spring.
Spring and summer: repotting and growth
With the arrival of the warm seasons, the poinsettia begins a new growth phase. When you notice the first shoots, it’s time to repot it into a slightly larger container, using fresh, well-drained soil. The substrate must be rich in nutrients, and the use of a specific fertilizer every two weeks helps the plant stay healthy and strong.
In summer, place it in a place protected from direct sun, such as a shaded balcony, or a ventilated area of the garden. During the hot months, the poinsettia requires more regular watering, but always avoiding water stagnation which can damage the root system.
Prepare the poinsettia for next Christmas
Autumn marks a crucial phase for the future of your plant. For the bracts to turn red again, Poinsettia needs a specific cycle of light and darkness. You will have to ensure that it receives at least 12 hours of total darkness per day, preferably from the evening hours until dawn: you could cover the plant with a dark cloth, or move it to a dark room during the night.
During the day, return her to a well-lit environment, maintaining cool, consistent temperatures. Thanks to the combination of prolonged darkness and natural light it will be possible to stimulate the pigmentation process of the bracts, allowing you to have a lush plant ready for the following holidays.
Mistakes to avoid and practical advice
Many people give up at the sight of yellowing leaves or discolored bracts, abandoning the plant too soon. It is important to remember that the poinsettia is a perennial plant, capable of being reborn and shining year after year, as long as it receives adequate care.
Avoiding excessive watering and exposure to extreme temperatures is essential for your health. Furthermore, a balanced fertilizer and annual repotting help to keep the substrate rich and suitable for growth.
