How to Make Poinsettia Turn Red and Re-bloom

Poinsettias are a popular Christmas plant that adds color and cheer to any space. However, many people struggle to keep them alive until the next year. Even if they do manage to survive, the plant often loses its vibrant red color. In this article, we will share some tips on how to make poinsettia turn red and re-bloom.

The Importance of Light

One of the most important factors in getting your poinsettia to bloom again is providing it with the right amount of light. During the growing season, from spring to fall, your poinsettia needs at least six hours of indirect sunlight each day. You can achieve this by placing it near a window that faces east or west. However, during the winter months when you want the plant to rebloom, you need to give it complete darkness for 14-16 hours each day for eight to ten weeks. This is crucial for the plant to produce those famous red bracts.

Watering and Fertilizing

Proper watering is also essential for your poinsettia to rebloom. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering will cause the leaves to wilt and fall off. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering your poinsettia, and be sure to drain any excess water that collects in the saucer. As for fertilizing, feed your poinsettia every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. However, stop fertilizing once the bracts start to change color, as this can interfere with the blooming process.

Temperature and Humidity

Like many plants, poinsettias thrive in moderate temperatures between 60-70°F during the day and 55-60°F at night. Keep your plant away from cold drafts or heat sources such as radiators or direct sunlight, as extreme temperatures can damage the leaves and flowers. Also, maintain a humidity level of 50% or higher to prevent the leaves from drying out. You can accomplish this by using a humidifier or placing a tray filled with water near the plant.

A poinsettia with red bracts

Pruning and Repotting

To encourage your poinsettia to produce more blooms, you should prune it back by cutting the stems down to six inches above the soil level in early April. This will encourage new growth and branching. If you want to keep your poinsettia as a houseplant, repot it in the spring into a slightly larger container with fresh potting soil. Be sure to pinch back the new growth to promote bushier growth.

In conclusion, making your poinsettia turn red and re-bloom requires proper care and attention. By following these tips on lighting, watering, fertilizing, temperature, pruning, and repotting, you can enjoy a beautiful and healthy poinsettia plant throughout the holiday season and beyond.

Poinsettia care, indoor gardening, seasonal plants, home decor