December is a time when poinsettias should be the centerpiece of holiday decor. But instead of bright red “stars”, many see drooping bracts, yellowing leaves and bare shoots. It seems that the flower has “faded” in a week. In fact, it suffers from dry air, temperature changes and lack of moisture, especially if it is located next to a battery.
Right now, in December, he needs not feeding, but careful support. And there is a remedy that everyone has – sugar water.
Take 1 teaspoon of sugar, dissolve in 1 liter of warm water. Pour into a spray bottle and spray the leaves and bracts every 5 days in the morning or evening, but not in direct sunlight. Sugar creates a light nutrient layer on the surface of the leaves, which retains moisture, slows down the withering of bracts, and maintains the energy balance of the plant during the dormant period.
Important: spray only the above-ground part, do not pour sugar water under the root. This can cause soil acidification.
After just 7–10 days, you will notice that the bracts remain elastic and bright, the leaves do not turn yellow at the edges, and the plant looks fresh.
Continue spraying until the end of January, and the poinsettia will retain its festive look until February, and sometimes longer.
Question and answer:
Do you need to water frequently?
Water only when the top layer of soil has dried out by 2–3 cm. In winter, about once every 7–10 days.
Is it possible to save poinsettias for next year?
Yes. After the bracts wilt, reduce watering, let the plant rest for 1.5–2 months, then gradually resume care. Given the right light it will bloom again.
What to do if poinsettia leaves turn yellow?
Check if there is a draft, if the soil is dry, if the pot is on the windowsill above the radiator. Spraying with sugar water and increasing the humidity often stops the process.
