Article: How to Care for a Poinsettia Through a Prince Albert Winter

How to Care for a Poinsettia Through a Prince Albert Winter
The trip home matters most
Poinsettia leaves are sensitive to cold. A few minutes of exposure at minus 20 can damage them, and the harm often shows up a day or two later as wilting or dropped leaves. Every poinsettia that leaves our shop gets wrapped or sleeved for the trip. Bring it straight home, warm the car up first, and never leave a poinsettia sitting in a parked vehicle while you run other errands.
Find a bright spot away from drafts
Poinsettias love bright, indirect light. A spot near a sunny window works well, as long as the leaves aren't touching cold glass. Keep your plant away from exterior doors that open onto the cold, and away from furnace vents, fireplaces and baseboard heaters. Steady room temperature, roughly 18 to 22°C, keeps it happiest.
Water carefully in dry prairie air
Forced-air heating makes indoor air very dry in a Prince Albert winter. Check the soil every few days by touching the surface. Water once the top of the soil feels dry, and let the extra drain away completely. Most poinsettias arrive in a decorative foil wrap, so poke a few holes in the bottom or remove the pot to water at the sink. Soggy roots are the number one reason poinsettias fail, even more than cold.
Pick a healthy plant to start
A good poinsettia has dark green leaves all the way down the stem and colourful bracts with no brown edges. Look at the small yellow buds in the centre of the bracts. Tight, fresh buds mean the plant is early in its bloom and will last longer at home. Our staff are always happy to help you pick one out.
Keep pets curious, not snacking
Poinsettias have a reputation for being dangerous to pets, but they're far less toxic than most people think. Chewing the leaves can cause mild stomach upset in cats and dogs. Placing the plant up high keeps everyone comfortable.
Poinsettias and Christmas flowers in Prince Albert
Burkitt's Floral carries fresh poinsettias in red, white and pink, plus Christmas arrangements and centerpieces for every home and office in Prince Albert. Stop by the shop or order for delivery, and we'll make sure your plant arrives warm, wrapped and ready for the season. Merry Christmas from our team.































































