Poinsettias have become a vibrant part of our home decorations at Christmas time but don’t leave it too late if you’re planning to buy one this year as there could be a shortage. The severe cold weather last year resulted in astronomical heating bills for growers, coupled with reduced demand because people were unable to get out to Garden Centres because of the snow and ice. Many growers lost money and have reduced or ceased production as a result. Growing conditions this year have been much more favourable; the high light levels have resulted in very bushy, brightly coloured plants and the mild weather will have been a great relief to growers, who, like the rest of us are facing massive increases in the cost of oil and gas.
If possible always try and buy a British grown plant. This is not a matter of patriotism, it is because plants are fresher and better quality. Poinsettias do not travel well, they resent being stored for any length of time in the dark, or exposed to cold draughts. They hate being handled and dislike being encased in a plastic sleeve with no air circulation for long periods of time. If you can, buy your plant direct from the grower, or from a retail outlet where they are displayed unsleeved in a warm area with good natural light levels. Avoid plants which are showing any signs of wilting, or have yellowing leaves at the base of the plant. Also check to ensure the coloured bracts are unblemished. “Scratching” occurs in plants which have been roughly handled, caused by the leaking of the milky sap at the point of damage. The tiny gold “pips” in the centre of the bracts (cyathia) should also look fresh and intact. Plants which are under stress, or have been forced too early will often lose these pips which are in fact the true flower. In the home these pips will eventually fall off, but the beautifully coloured bracts will continue to give enjoyment for months.