DATE:   12/12/96 
WRITER: Bob Polomski, (864) 656-2604 

Tips To Help Poinsettia  
Thrive In Your Home 
(Second of two-part series) 

     CLEMSON -- With more than 70 million sold nationwide each
year, the poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) is the most popular
flowering potted plant sold in the U.S.
     To help your poinsettia thrive in your home during the  
holiday season, follow these tips:  
     * Make sure it receives at least 6 hours of bright, 
indirect sunlight each day. Putting it in direct sunlight may 
fade the color of the bracts. (The bracts are modified leaves 
and not flowers. The flowers are the small yellow blossoms, 
called cyathia, in the center of the colorful bracts.) If direct
sun cannot be avoided, filter the light with a light shade or 
sheer curtain.  
     * To prolong the bright color of the bracts, daytime 
temperatures should not exceed 70 F.  Don't put your poinsettia  
near drafts, excessive heat, or dry air from appliances, fire- 
places, or ventilating ducts.  
     * Poinsettias require moderately moist soil. Water them 
thoroughly when the soil surface feels dry to the touch. Never 
let the potting mixture completely dry out. When watering, take 
the plant out of its decorative pot or cover and water until 
water seeps out of the drainage hole, completely saturating the 
soil.   
     * Don't let the poinsettia sit in standing water. This can
cause root rot and could kill the plant. Don't fertilize when 
the plant is in bloom.    
     * Poinsettias are sensitive to cold weather. An enclosed 
patio or entryway may be a suitable place for them, if night 
temperatures remain above 55 Fahrenheit. Make sure the delicate
bracts are well-protected from wind and cold rain. If the
temperature drops below 50 F, premature leaf drop will occur as a
result of chilling injury. -- Bob Polomski, Clemson Extension 
consumer horticulturist. 
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     If you have gardening questions or comments, write to 
Agricultural News & Publications, A-101 Poole Agricultural
Center, Box 340311, Clemson University, Clemson, S.C. 29634-0311.
                               END