How to Grow Poinsettia Tree - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

Poinsettia tree is a beautiful plant that is native to Mexico. It is a member of the spurge family and its scientific name is Euphorbia pulcherrima. The plant has large, dark green leaves and bright red flowers. The flowers bloom in the winter and the plant is often used as a Christmas decoration.

How to Grow Poinsettia Tree - Plant Care & Tips

Also known as

  • Poinsettia
  • Christmas Star
  • Easter Flower
  • Winter Rose
  • Flamenco Flower

Basic info

  • The poinsettia tree is native to Mexico and Central America.
  • It is named after Joel Robert Poinsett, the first U.S. Minister to Mexico, who introduced the plant to the United States in 182
  • The poinsettia tree is a member of the spurge family, which also includes the Christmas tree.
  • The leaves of the poinsettia tree are traditionally used in Mexico to make a red dye.
  • The sap of the poinsettia tree is a skin irritant and can cause severe allergic reactions in some people.
  • Poinsettia trees are typically propagated from cuttings, not seeds.
  • The average lifespan of a poinsettia tree is about seven years.
  • Poinsettia trees are relatively drought-tolerant and do not need to be watered frequently.
  • Poinsettia trees should be protected from frost and freezing temperatures.
  • Poinsettia trees are typically only available for purchase during the Christmas season.

Growing Steps

  1. For poinsettia tree, first step is to grow the tree in a 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) pot.
  2. Place the pot in a sunny location.
  3. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
  4. Fertilize the tree every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
  5. Pinch back the tips of the branches to encourage branching.
  6. In late summer, begin to withhold water to induce dormancy.
  7. Reduce watering even further in fall, and stop altogether in winter.
  8. Bring the tree out of dormancy in spring by slowly reintroducing water.
  9. Resume regular watering and fertilizing once new growth appears.
  10. Move the tree outdoors in summer, but bring it back indoors before frost hits.

The Soil

About soil condition, the best way to keep your poinsettia tree healthy is to make sure the soil is moist but not soggy. Check the soil every few days and water it when the top inch or so of soil feels dry. It's also important to make sure the tree's roots don't sit in water, so make sure the pot has drainage holes.

Light condition

Just like other poinsettias, the poinsettia tree requires bright sunlight to thrive. Place your tree in a sunny spot near a window where it will receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Be sure to rotate the tree every week or so to prevent it from leaning too heavily in one direction.

Ideal Temperature

The temperature condition that is best for a poinsettia tree is a temperature that is between 68 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature is too cold, the tree will not bloom. If the temperature is too hot, the tree will not bloom.

Humidity Requirement

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 50%. If the humidity drops below 30%, the leaves will drop off. If the humidity is too high, around 80%, the leaves will yellow and the plant will become stunted.

Fertilizing

For the fertilizer, this kind of plant does not need a lot of nutrients. In fact, too much fertilizer can actually harm the plant. A light feeding of a balanced fertilizer every few weeks is all that is needed. As for the roots, poinsettias are not very demanding. They will do fine in a pot with a good potting mix. There is no need for a special potting mix or anything like that. Just make sure the pot has drainage holes to allow excess water to drain out.

Light requirement

Pruning your poinsettia tree is an important part of keeping it healthy and looking its best. You should prune your tree in early spring, before new growth begins. Start by removing any dead or damaged branches. Next, cut back any branches that are growing too long or out of place. Finally, trim back any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other.

About Propagating

Propagation is typically from stem cuttings taken from the previous year's plant in late spring. Cuttings should be 4-6 inches long and taken from the tips of the stems. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants. Allow the cuttings to callous over for a few days before planting. Plant the cuttings in moistened potting mix and keep moist. Rooting will occur in 4-6 weeks. Once the roots are established, transplant to individual pots.

Plant Growth

Usually, the plant growth rate is about 6 inches per year. However, this can vary depending on the variety of poinsettia tree and the growing conditions. For example, if the tree is grown in a pot, it may not grow as fast as if it were planted in the ground.

Common Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are: -Lack of sunlight -Dry soil -Too much water -Pests To prevent these problems, make sure to give your poinsettia tree plenty of sunlight and water it when the soil is dry. If you see any pests, treat them immediately.

Tips on Growing

  • Remember to keep your poinsettia tree in a sunny spot.
  • Keep the tree well-watered, but don't overdo it.
  • When the weather gets warmer, fertilize your tree with a good quality fertilizer.
  • If you live in a cold climate, make sure to protect your tree from frost damage by covering it with a frost cloth or burlap bag.
  • In the spring, prune your tree to encourage new growth.
  • Keep an eye out for pests, and treat them promptly if you see any.
  • If your tree starts to lose its leaves, don't be alarmed. This is normal during the fall and winter months.
  • When it's time to repot your tree, use a good quality potting mix and a pot that is slightly larger than the current one.
  • Be sure to stake your tree if it is tall, so that it

Alternative Plants

  • Poinsettia
  • Poinsettia plant
  • Pot of poinsettias
  • Poplar trees
  • Portulaca
  • Posies
  • Pots of poinsettias
  • Poinsettias for sale
  • Posy
  • Pot of poinsettias for sale

Source:
Poinsettias - 7.412 - Extension
Poinsettia Forms and Styles - Ornamental Production …
Poinsettias: Care and Reflowering [fact sheet] - Extension

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Trees Category