How to Keep a Poinsettia ('Christmas Star') Until the Next Year: Biology, Mythology, and Agronomy Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima), known as the 'Christmas Star' or 'Bethlehem Star', is not just seasonal decor but a living evergreen shrub capable of delighting its owner for many years. Its bright red, pink, white, or cream 'petals' are actually modified leaves (bracts) that change color in response to short daylight. Keeping the plant until the next Christmas is an exciting dialogue with its natural rhythms, requiring an understanding of its life cycle. The process can be divided into key phases corresponding to the seasons. 1. Fact: Why Does the Poinsettia 'Twinkle' at Christmas? This is a photoperiodic plant. It sets flower buds and colors the bracts only when continuous darkness lasts for at least 12-14 hours a day for 6-8 weeks. In nature (Mexico and Central America), this condition naturally occurs in the fall. The plant reaches its peak decorativeness by Christmas. The whole secret of preservation lies in artificially reproducing this cycle: the growth period, the rest period, and a strict 'light regimen'. 2. Post-Holiday Care (January – March): Restoring Strength After the holidays are over and the bracts begin to lose color or fall: Pruning: At the end of January or February, when the plant is flowering (the small true flowers in the center turn yellow and fall off), it needs to be pruned, leaving stems about 10-15 cm high (with 3-5 dormant buds). This stimulates branching and prevents elongation. Conditions: Place the pot in a light place without direct sunlight, at a temperature of 18-22°C. Water moderately when the top layer of soil dries out. Feed with a complete fertilizer for ornamental leafy plants every 2 weeks. During this period, the poinsettia increases its green mass. 3. Active Growth Phase (April – September): Storing Energy Repotting: It is desirable to repot the plant in April-May into a slightly larger pot with fresh, loose, and nut ... Read more