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POINSETTIA PRIMER
History
Joel Roberts Poinsett was the first U.S. minister to Mexico. While in southern Mexico, he came across a native plant that the ancient Aztecs had used
to make dyes and treat fevers.
Poinsett introduced the plant into the United States in 1825. Nearly two centuries later, what we know as the poinsettia is a holiday staple, with
some 70 million to 80 million sold each year.
The poinsettia is among the longest-lasting blooming plants and is the most widely tested consumer plant, according to www.aboutflowers.com.
Poinsettias are safe for people and pets alike.
Care
To choose the perfect poinsettia:
- Pick a plant with small, tightly clustered buds in the center.
- Look for crisp, bright, undamaged foliage.
- Avoid plants displayed in drafty or crowded areas.
To keep the poinsettia blooming:
- When surface soil is dry to the touch, water thoroughly. Discard excess water in the saucer.
- To prolong color, keep a temperature range of 60 degrees for night and 72 degrees for day. High humidity is preferable.
- Place plant away from hot or cold drafts, and protect from cold winds.
To re-bloom for the next season:
- During winter, continue to follow holiday upkeep tips.
- March 17 (St. Patrick's Day): When bracts (leaves) fade, cut stems back to 8 inches above soil line
- Continue to water regularly.
- Lightly fertilize with a good, balanced all-purpose fertilizer every three to four weeks.
- When temperatures are warm, place plant outdoors; first in indirect, then direct sunlight. Avoid temperatures
below 50 degrees throughout the summer.
- Fourth of July: Cut back new growth stems. Re-pot if needed.
- Early September (Labor Day): Move plant inside. Provide six or more hours of direct light.
- Oct. 1 through mid-December: Confine plant to complete darkness for 14 hours, giving it
10 hours of natural light daily. This will set the buds and cause bracts to color.
Toxicity Myth
Scientific research from The Ohio State University has proved the
poinsettia to be non-toxic to both humans and pets. All parts of
the plant were tested, including the leaves and sap.
As with any non-food product, however, the poinsettia is not
meant to be eaten and can cause varying degrees of
discomfort; therefore, the plant should be kept out
of the reach of young children and curious pets.
Sources: www.aboutflowers.com, www.ecke.com,
www.wikipedia.org
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