A native of southern Mexico, poinsettias have become traditional for winter color on this side of the border at Christmas time. The bright red foliage (variations of pink and white are also now available) decorates homes and businesses during the holidays.
To maintain the lovely colors of your poinsettia plants during the season, keep them under a light or near a window. Placing the pot on a bed of marbles in water will keep the plant moist and discourage leaf drop. Do not allow the plant to stand in water. Try to maintain a temperature of 60 to 70 degrees with no drafts.
The plant will drop its leaves and go dormant in late winter or early spring. At this time it may be placed out of doors in a warm protected area. Create a micro-climate against the southern wall of the house and protect it if a freeze is expected.
Poinsettias get "leggy" and will require pruning to promote a bushy appearance. These plants grow successfully in San Clemente and the warmer climes, but here in the high desert the needs of the plant demand special attention. If you are determined to try and reproduce the commercial quality of the poinsettia, prepare to expend much effort with small chance of great achievement. None of the requirements of even temperature, moisture, acidic Soil, or the period of absolute darkness exist in the desert - they will have to be created.
When the leaves of your holiday plant have dropped and the plant is dormant, withhold watering it and allow it to be in a dry state through the spring. Begin watering again in June or when you notice mesquite trees beginning to leaf.
Take a cutting from the tips of the new growth which has 4 or 5 bracts or eyes. Plant these stems in acidic potting solution in a 4 inch container which will drain well. Encourage propagation by covering the entire plant with a plastic "envelope." This will assure an even moisture balance. In October move the plant to an area of complete darkness - no light at all! - for 14 hours each night. When leaves begin to turn red, start feeding the plant every two weeks with a nitrogen fertilizer.
The plants should have green undergrowth, bright red color at the top of the plant, and tiny yellow blossoms when it is mature.
Buying a new poinsettia plant each season is recommended. They are available at many local stores. Poinsettias make wonderful gifts for the hostess you may visit during the holiday time of year. They contribute to peaceful feelings when viewed in arrangements of multiple plants.