Poinsettias are a popular Christmas plant that can be kept year after year if cared for properly. A key part of getting poinsettias to rebloom is giving them long nights – a period of darkness each night for about 8-10 weeks leading up to Christmas. This tricks the plant into thinking winter is coming and encourages it to produce colorful bracts. But do you need to continue regular watering while the plant is spending so much time in the dark? Let’s take a look.
Why Poinsettias Need Complete Darkness
Poinsettias are photoperiodic plants, which means their flowering is triggered by the length of daylight they receive. They require long periods of uninterrupted darkness in order to bloom This tricks them into thinking winter is approaching
Specifically, poinsettias need about 12-14 hours of complete darkness each night for 6-8 weeks in the fall in order to bloom. Even a brief exposure to light during their dark period can delay or prevent flowering The length and consistency of the dark periods are key
Continuing To Water In The Dark
When you put your poinsettia into a closet or box for its daily dark period, you should continue regular watering as you normally would.
Here are some tips for watering poinsettias in the dark:
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Check the soil moisture daily by touching the top few inches of soil. Water when the soil is just slightly dry to the touch.
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Water until it runs from the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. This ensures thorough watering.
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Use room temperature water, not cold water straight from the tap.
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Make sure the plant does not sit in standing water by emptying the saucer under the pot after watering.
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Maintain a consistent watering schedule. Poinsettias prefer evenly moist, but not soggy soil.
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Consider using a moisture meter to check soil moisture levels. This takes the guesswork out of watering.
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Do not let the plant wilt severely between waterings. This can cause leaf drop.
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Be extra careful not to overwater while the plant is in the dark, since you cannot see it!
Other Care Tips During The Darkness Treatment
In addition to watering, there are a few other things to keep in mind while your poinsettia is getting its required long nights:
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Keep the plant in a room with a temperature between 65-70°F. Avoid cold drafts and excessive heat.
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Fertilize the plant with a balanced houseplant fertilizer once a month up until the dark treatments begin. Do not fertilize during the critical flowering stage.
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Monitor for pests like whiteflies, spider mites, and mealybugs which can spread quickly in the dark. Remove any infected leaves immediately. Insecticidal soap can help control infestations.
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Prune the plant back by about half in spring after flowering to encourage a compact, bushy shape. This will maximize blooms for the next season.
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Repot in the spring into a pot one size larger if the roots are crowded. Use a well-draining potting mix.
When To Bring The Plant Back Into The Light
Once the flower bracts begin showing good color, you can bring the poinsettia back into normal daylight conditions. There is no need to continue the long dark periods once flowering is initiated.
Place the plant in a sunny window where it will get at least 6 hours of direct sun daily. Rotate the plant periodically for even sun exposure. Keep watering the poinsettia whenever the top inch of soil becomes dry.
With the proper care, your holiday poinsettias can thrive year after year. Just be sure not to let their watering requirements slip while they are getting their critical darkness treatment in the fall. Check soil moisture daily and water thoroughly when needed. This will ensure you have a beautiful poinsettia display for the holidays!
Do We Need to Water Poinsettias when They Are in the Dark?
When a Poinsettia- or any plant- is kept in the dark, the plant will respire less and have less need for moisture. Consider lowering their watering frequency a little — but not too much!
How Often to Water Poinsettia Indoors & Outside
Poinsettia water requirements are typically quite easy to fulfill. To water Poinsettias indoors, try to keep a schedule of one watering every 7-10 days, depending on indoor humidity.
Keep in mind, however, that outdoor Poinsettias can be trickier in care. To know how often to water a Poinsettia, take a look at its soil: it’s usually your best guess that is your best friend! If the dirt is dry to the touch, let your greenie have a nice drink.
Keep a watchful eye on them in dry climates, but always avoid overwatering at all costs. Your greenie will not appreciate soggy soil and might even decay beyond saving!
The Secret to Keeping Your Poinsettia Alive ALL YEAR
FAQ
How long do you leave a poinsettia in the dark?
Poinsettias (Euphorbia pulcherrima) need total darkness, for 14 hours each day, starting about eight weeks before you want to display them.
Do I water my poinsettia when it’s in the dark?
Do We Need to Water Poinsettias when They Are in the Dark? When a Poinsettia- or any plant- is kept in the dark, the plant will respire less and have less need for moisture. Consider lowering their watering frequency a little — but not too much!
What happens when you put a poinsettia in the dark?
… spends a bit of time in a dark closet, it begins its miraculous transformation from a plant that is completely green to one that is brilliantly colouredNov 6, 2015
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