How Do I Care for a Christmas Poinsettia to Keep It Fresh

 The Christmas season in London feels incomplete without the iconic poinsettia—the bright red, star-shaped holiday flower that instantly adds warmth to homes, offices, and festive displays. Whether you buy your poinsettia from a Christmas flower shop in London or order it through a Christmas online flower service like Elisana Florist, proper care ensures your plant stays fresh, colourful, and healthy throughout the festive period (and even beyond!).

In this detailed guide, we’ll explain how to care for a Christmas poinsettia, the common mistakes to avoid, and tips to keep it looking vibrant well into the New Year.

What Makes the Poinsettia a Christmas Favourite?

Poinsettias are known for their striking red, white, or pink bracts (colourful leaves). Contrary to what many believe, these bracts are not flowers—the actual flowers are the tiny yellow buds in the centre.

In London, poinsettias are extremely popular during the holiday season because:

  • They offer classic Christmas colours

  • They look amazing as table décor and entrance displays

  • They pair beautifully with other Christmas flowers London arrangements

  • They are affordable yet festive

  • They last long with simple, consistent care

Elisana Florist delivers carefully nurtured poinsettias across London, ensuring each plant arrives fresh and ready to brighten your space.

1. Choose a Healthy Poinsettia (Most Important Step!)

Even the best care won’t help if you start with an unhealthy plant. Here’s how to pick one:

Look for These Signs of a Healthy Poinsettia

  • Bright, vibrant bracts (red, pink, or white)

  • Dark green leaves

  • No drooping or yellowing

  • The central yellow buds should be small and intact

  • No visible insects on the leaves

Avoid Plants Displayed Near:

  • Open doors (cold drafts damage poinsettias)

  • Ventilation fans

  • Heaters

  • Wet soil trays

Elisana Florist ensures all poinsettias are stored at optimal temperatures before delivery, making us one of the most reliable choices for Christmas online flower shopping.

2. Keep Your Poinsettia Warm – Temperature Matters

Poinsettias are native to Mexico, meaning they love warmth. London winters can be harsh, so protecting them from cold is essential.

Ideal Temperature Range

  • Day: 18–22°C

  • Night: 15–18°C

What to Avoid

  • Cold drafts from windows or doors

  • Placing the plant near radiators or heaters

  • Sudden temperature changes (the biggest cause of leaf drop)

Pro Tip:

If you order poinsettias online, bring them inside immediately when delivered, especially in freezing temperatures.

3. Give Your Poinsettia the Right Amount of Light

Poinsettias thrive in bright, indirect sunlight.

Best Light Conditions

  • Place near a window with filtered light

  • 6 hours of indirect daylight is ideal

  • East-facing windows work beautifully

Avoid:

  • Direct harsh sunlight (it can burn the leaves)

  • Dark corners

  • Areas with artificial heat from lamps

Light plays a huge role in keeping the bracts vibrant throughout Christmas.

4. Water Your Poinsettia Properly (Not Too Much, Not Too Little)

Overwatering is the #1 reason poinsettias die early.

How to Water Correctly

  • Water only when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry

  • Remove excess water from the tray to prevent root rot

  • Use room-temperature water

  • Never keep the pot sitting in water

Watering Frequency

  • Usually every 3–4 days indoors in London, depending on heating and humidity.

Signs of Overwatering

  • Yellow leaves

  • Drooping foliage

  • Mushy stems

Signs of Underwatering

  • Dry, crispy leaves

  • Sudden leaf drop

Watering discipline can easily help your poinsettia last past Christmas.

5. Maintain Indoor Humidity

London homes tend to become dry due to heating systems during winter.

Simple Ways to Increase Humidity

  • Place a humidifier near the plant

  • Keep a tray of water nearby

  • Mist the air around the plant (not directly on the leaves)

Humidity keeps the leaves fresh, preventing them from curling or drying out.

6. Avoid Exposure to Wind and Drafts

Poinsettias hate cold air. Even a few minutes of exposure can damage the foliage.

Keep Them Away From:

  • Open doors

  • Balcony windows

  • Car vents (while transporting)

  • Cold storerooms

If you’re picking up poinsettias directly from a Christmas flowers London shop, ask them to wrap the plant in protective paper.

7. Do Not Fertilise During the Festive Season

Many people make the mistake of feeding their poinsettias immediately.

Important Rule:

Do NOT fertilise your poinsettia during Christmas or December.

The plant is already in full bloom. Fertilising may stress it.

When to Fertilise

  • Start only around February or March if you want to keep it as a long-term indoor plant.

8. Keep Poinsettias Away from Pets and Children

While not extremely toxic, poinsettias can cause mild discomfort if ingested.

Symptoms in Pets

  • Drooling

  • Vomiting

  • Mild irritation

Keep the plant on higher tables or decorative stands.

9. Repotting and Long-Term Care (If You Wish to Keep It Beyond Xmas)

Even though many people keep poinsettias only during Christmas, you can grow them year-round.

After Christmas Care Tips

  • Move the plant to a bright indoor location

  • Gradually reduce watering in late January

  • Prune the plant in early spring to encourage new growth

  • Repot in May using fresh potting soil

To Get It Red Again Next Christmas:

Poinsettias require 14 hours of darkness every night for about 8 weeks (starting in October).
 This triggers the colour change.

Elisana Florist can guide you if you’d like a care calendar!

Common Mistakes That Ruin Christmas Poinsettias

Avoid these to keep your holiday flowers fresh:

❌ Overwatering
 ❌ Placing the plant near heaters or radiators
 ❌ Putting it in direct sunlight
 ❌ Exposing it to cold during transport
 ❌ Using fertilizers too soon
 ❌ Forgetting to drain excess water
 ❌ Keeping it in a dark corner

A little extra attention goes a long way.

Why Buy Poinsettias from Elisana Florist?

At Elisana Florist, we deliver premium-quality, healthy poinsettias across London. We ensure:

✔ Plants stored at ideal temperatures
 ✔ Fresh, vibrant bracts
 ✔ Safe, well-packaged home delivery
 ✔ Best choices for both home décor and gifting
 ✔ Reliable Christmas online flower delivery all over London

Whether you need a single festive plant or bulk orders for corporate gifting, Elisana Florist brings Christmas beauty right to your doorstep.

FAQ: Christmas Poinsettia Care

1. How long do poinsettias last?

With proper care, they can last 6 weeks to a full year.

2. Why are poinsettia leaves falling off?

This happens due to overwatering, cold drafts, or lack of light.

3. Can poinsettias go outside in London?

Not during winter. They are sensitive to cold and can die quickly.

4. Are poinsettias poisonous?

They are mildly irritating but not dangerous. Keep away from pets and small children.

5. When should I water my poinsettia?

Only when the soil feels dry at the top.

Final Thoughts

Poinsettias are one of the most beautiful symbols of Christmas in London. With simple care—right light, warm temperatures, proper watering, and protection from drafts—you can keep your poinsettia looking fresh and festive throughout the season.

Whether you're decorating your home or gifting someone special, Elisana Florist offers the finest selection of Christmas flowers in London and smooth, reliable Christmas online flower delivery.
Location: London, UK

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

What Flowers to Choose for a Man's Funeral

  Flowers have long been a staple in funeral traditions, serving as a symbol of love, respect, and remembrance. When it comes to honoring the life of a man who has passed away, choosing the right flowers can feel daunting. Each bloom carries its own meaning and emotional weight, making it crucial to select arrangements that reflect his personality or legacy. What do you choose? Classic roses or perhaps something more unconventional like succulents? This guide will help navigate your options while ensuring that your floral tribute resonates with those who knew and loved him. Let's explore how flowers can convey profound sentiments during this difficult time. Why is it Important to Choose Appropriate Flowers for a Man's Funeral? Choosing appropriate flowers for a man’s funeral carries significant emotional weight. Flowers serve as a heartfelt expression of grief and respect, allowing friends and family to convey their condolences in a meaningful way. The right blooms can reflect...
Read more

What do the notes say on the flowers for a funeral ?

  When it comes to bidding farewell to a loved one, expressing your feelings can be challenging. Funeral flowers serve as a poignant symbol of love, respect, and remembrance during such difficult times. They not only enhance the beauty of the service but also convey heartfelt messages that words may sometimes fail to capture. Whether you're sending a bouquet directly from a funeral flowers shop or arranging for them in London, knowing what to say on those blooms is essential. The right message can bring comfort and solace both to you and those grieving alongside you. In this guide, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about writing thoughtful notes for funeral flowers —helping you find just the right sentiment amidst the sorrowful moments of life. Why Funeral Flowers Matter Funeral flowers hold deep significance during times of loss. They serve as a visual expression of love and support for grieving families. The sight and scent can evoke cherished memories, providing comfo...
Read more

What is the Etiquette for Sending Funeral Flowers

  Saying goodbye to a loved one is never easy, and funeral flowers play an essential role in this poignant moment. They serve as a beautiful tribute, expressing emotions that words sometimes cannot capture. From vibrant arrangements to serene bouquets, these floral displays bring comfort not only to the departed but also to those left behind. Whether you’re honoring traditions or exploring modern alternatives, understanding where to send funeral flowers can help convey your sympathy in meaningful ways. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about choosing the right blooms for this sensitive occasion. The Importance of Funeral Flowers Funeral flowers hold a significant place in commemorating the lives of those we've lost. They symbolize love, respect, and remembrance during an emotionally charged time. The vibrant colors and delicate fragrances can provide solace to grieving families, reminding them of the beauty that existed in their loved one's life. Flowers serve as a v...
Read more