Poinsettias will ‘look good for months’ if you follow Monty Don’s essential 10-minute task

Poinsettias are a popular choice for adding a splash of festive colour to homes during the season.

However, many people may not realise that with the right care, these vibrant plants can continue to thrive for months.

While they can be somewhat tricky to look after, there are certain methods that can help prolong their lifespan, allowing them to spread cheer for several months.

guru has shared some tips on how to keep poinsettias looking attractive well beyond the festive season.

He stressed that poinsettias flourish in damp warmth, so it’s crucial to avoid placing them in hot and dry areas to ensure their ongoing health and visual appeal.

Monty further advised: “They do not like cool nights, very hot dry rooms or big fluctuations in temperatures.

“So keep them where there is a constant average temperature, avoiding draughts, cold windows or even very bright spots that can get very hot in the middle of the day.”

With this in mind, finding the perfect spot in your home is key to extending the lifespan of your poinsettias.

Keeping them healthy also involves ensuring they are well-watered, but it’s important to wait for the right moment to give them a good soak.

This strategic approach to watering is vital for the best possible care of poinsettias.

Monty advised: “They like plenty of water but let the compost dry out before giving them a really good soak, standing the pot in a sink full of water.

“Leave it to stand for 10 minutes or so before letting the excess water drain from the pot.”

Signs of an overwatered poinsettia include leaves turning yellow or brown and wilting in extreme cases.

To boost humidity around the plants and ward off overwatering, misting is recommended.

This quick task should ideally be done in the morning, allowing the plants to dry throughout the day.