Lowes has a wide selection of house plants and you can save money on them all with a Lowes Money Off Coupon from We Are Coupons. You may have been given a poinsettia as a Thanksgiving gift and the first step in caring for a poinsettia is to find a plant with a proper growth habit. You can determine the correct growth habit by examining the plant's appearance and anatomy. You can choose from a variety of different types. This article will also discuss the importance of watering and insect control.
Anatomy
Unlike many other plants, the poinsettia has its own unique anatomy and blooming cycle. Its cup-shaped cyathium contains several male stamens and a single, bright-red flower. The female flower is made up of a pistil and an ovary and lacks petals. A latex-like substance oozes from the cyathium.
The Poinsettia is a member of the spurge family, which is more common among herbs. Unlike regular plants, poinsettia flowers have no petals. They look like modified leaves, with green, sepal-like structures at the base of the faux-petals.
Various varieties
If you're looking to add a festive touch to your holiday display, you can choose from various varieties of poinsettia. Poinsettias come in many beautiful colors, including white and red. They are easy to grow and have great shelf life. If you prefer a different color, try Freedom Marble. The blooms of this plant are bright red and have large, spotted bracts.
The traditional red poinsettia is the most popular plant for holiday decorating. However, you can also try out some novelty poinsettia varieties. Some novelty varieties have bracts that pucker and have leaves with cream and red margins. Although they are not as traditional as the classic red poinsettia, novelty poinsettias are a great option if you're decorating for the holiday season.
Insect control options
Although poinsettias are generally resistant to pesticides, some insects can cause damage to them. Insecticides designed for other plants may be effective in controlling mealybugs, but only if applied early enough. Insecticides for poinsettias should be applied to the undersides of leaves as well as the plant stem to prevent damage.
Aphids, which feed on the plant's leaves and shoots, are another pest that can pose a serious threat. Aphids are most active in May and June. If you spot one, squeeze it out with your fingers and wash it off with a bucket of soapy water. Aphids can stunt new growth and cause leaves and buds to wilt. They also secrete honeydew that attracts sooty mold and can cause the plant to look unhealthy.
Watering
The amount of water needed to keep a poinsettia healthy depends on several factors. This includes the temperature, light and soil type. You should water poinsettias when necessary and at least once a week. However, if you only have a small pot, water your plant less frequently.
Poinsettias can become damaged by too much heat or moisture. Avoid letting the water stand on the soil, which can cause the leaves to fall off. Also, avoid placing the plant in drafts or near heating vents.
Avoiding extreme temperatures
Poinsettias should be planted in an area that has a mild climate. They prefer about six hours of sunlight a day and fourteen hours of darkness. However, if you live in an area where temperatures can reach as high as 120 degrees, you may want to consider planting your poinsettia in a cooler location.
Poinsettias prefer indirect and natural light but should be kept away from cold or drafty windows. They prefer temperatures between sixty and seventy degrees Fahrenheit during the day. During the night, they need to be kept in a room that has a lower temperature, preferably around 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
