Gardens Galore by Marika d’Ailly - Poinsettias

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The Poinsettias bought for Christmas are probably still in pretty good shape. The bright red bracts cheer up any room in wintertime.
The plants like plenty of light, do best free of draughts and want to be watered well, without being drowned in humidity. When the leaves drop off prematurely, it is usually because they are too wet or too dry.
With some dedication it is possible to keep the plants over the summer and have them ready for the next Christmas season.
The flowers on a Poinsettia are the little yellow centers, whereas the colour comes from the coloured bracts.
By late March or early April the coloured bracts have fallen off. This is the time to let the pot dry out somewhat in a cool place. By mid May the stem should be cut back to about 4 inches above the soil. A white sap will ooze out. It is not poisonous, but can be an irritant. Repot the plant with good quality potting soil, water well and place it in a sunny location.
When new growth appears, fertilize it every 2 weeks with 20-20-20. By the time the new shoots have reached about 4 inches, cuttings can be made. These tender plants like bottom heat for vigorous growth.
In case seedlings are not desired, cut back the growing tips of the original plant in early July and again in late August, to ensure a bushy plant.
In order to get blooms to form and the bracts to colour, at least 12 hours of undisturbed rest is needed, this means NO ARTIFICIAL LIGHT. When the evenings get longer and the lights are turned on, the plants have to be placed in TOTAL DARKNESS from 5:00pm to 8:00am every day. After about ten weeks new blooms appear and the plants, once again are ready for the living room.

The Valley Neighbours Garden Club meets every third Tuesday of the month at 7:00pm. For information call Susan at 403-933-7675.

The Horticultural Club meets every second Tuesday of the month at 7:30pm. For information call Sheila at 403-931-3989.