Monty Don shares tips for pruning fruit trees
Poinsettias serve as a vibrant and festive addition to home decor during the Christmas season.
But what many don’t know is that with the right care, these plants can thrive for months.
While they can be challenging to care for, using certain care methods can extend their lifespan, allowing them to bring joy for several months.
Horticulturist and lead presenter BBC’s Gardeners’ World Monty Don explained how to maintain the attractive appearance of poinsettias well beyond the Christmas season.
He emphasised that poinsettias thrive in damp warmth, so it’s essential to avoid placing them in hot and dry spots to ensure their prolonged health and aesthetic appeal.
Read more: Plants to prune now in December for ‘lots of new growth in the spring’
Monty added: “They do not like cool nights, very hot dry rooms or big fluctuations in temperatures.
“So keep them where there is a constant average temperature, avoiding draughts, cold windows or even very bright spots that can get very hot in the middle of the day.”
Taking this into account, extending the lifespan of poinsettias relies heavily on finding the perfect spot in your home.
Maintaining their health also involves keeping them well-watered, but the key is to wait for the right moment to soak them.
This strategic approach to watering is essential for the optimal care of poinsettias.
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“They like plenty of water but let the compost dry out before giving them a really good soak,” Monty wrote in his December 2023 blog.
“[Stand] the pot in a sink full of water and leave it to stand for 10 minutes or so before letting the excess water drain from the pot.”
Gardeners typically experience a shift in tasks based on the changing seasons, and December is generally a quieter month for gardening responsibilities.
“Christmas comes and we ransack the garden for greenery, deck the halls, put up a tree, make wreaths.
“Boxing Day feels like a fresh start,” the expert added. “In fact I always sow some seeds on Boxing Day – onions, chillies, some tomatoes – as much as a symbolic act as serious horticulture.”
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