Picking a Perfect Poinsettia

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According to the USDA, about 32 million poinsettias were sold in 2015 — close to $140 million at wholesale prices. That puts Poinsettias second to Orchids as the most popular potted flowering plant in the US. Although we generally think of Poinsettias during Christmas, if well cared for, they can last well beyond the holidays.

Did you know the “main attraction” of the Poinsettia are their leaves? The actual flowers are the yellow cluster of buds in the center. The colored leaves are called bracts; they change colors when the plant forms flowers. As you might guess, red is the most popular color and makes up 75% of Poinsettia sales. However, naturally occurring colors range from red, salmon and pink to yellow, cream and white. You can also find new varieties each year that include speckled or marbled and some with colors blended together. Keep in mind when you see blue or designer color Poinsettias that they are a result of dyes — they don’t grow in these unusual colors and often have a very short lifespan.

Poinsettias are not poisonous, so they are safe to have in the home and glassed in patio or sunroom. That being said, people who are sensitive to latex (the milky white fluid found in cut Poinsettias and other plants) may have a reaction if they come in contact with the sap. And, just because they aren’t poisonous doesn’t mean you should eat them. They can cause an upset stomach and children and pets may choke on the fibrous parts. So, make sure you keep them in a safe spot.

Choosing a Poinsettia:
Firm stems
Free of wilting, breaking or drooping
Buy from a store where they have room and aren’t overcrowded on displays
Avoid waterlogged soil (especially if they are wilted)
2 1/2 times taller than the width of the container

Caring for your Poinsettia:
Place in a sunny window
Keep room temperature between 60 and 70 degrees
Water only when the soil is dry and drain well

Churchland’s Village Flower Shop hand selects our Poinsettias from local sources. Our plants are known for their quality, size and beauty and sell quickly. Call 757-484-2642 or stop by the shop for more information.

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