UPDATE: Poinsettias are officially in bloom, showcasing vibrant colors just in time for the holiday season! Garden enthusiasts are urged to act quickly as these festive plants are now available at local stores and nurseries across Kona, Hawaii.
As Thanksgiving leftovers fade, the sight of poinsettias and their stunning relative, Euphorbia leucocephala, known as “Snow on the Mountain,” signals the arrival of Christmas. These iconic plants thrive in drier areas like Kona, Ka‘u, and Kohala and are at their peak from November through March. Don’t miss out—bring the holiday spirit into your home with these beautiful ornaments!
Originally hailing from the dry regions of Mexico, poinsettias flourish in conditions with less rain during their flowering season. First introduced to the United States in 1828 by botanist Joel Roberts Poinsett, these plants have become synonymous with Christmas celebrations. Known as “La Flor de la Nochebuena” or “Flower of the Holy Night,” they are a vital part of holiday décor.
For those looking to cultivate their own poinsettias, purchasing potted plants from nurseries is the easiest route. However, savvy gardeners sometimes seek out hardwood cuttings from neighbors’ pruned plants. Caution is advised: selecting cuttings from healthy plants is crucial to avoid disease.
Poinsettias come in an array of colors, including traditional reds, whites, and pinks, and can add a splash of color to your garden well beyond the holiday season. To ensure optimal growth, apply fertilizer starting in August to promote robust, colorful bracts. Repeat applications in early spring and mid-summer are also recommended.
For best results, prune your poinsettias back in late winter or early spring after blooming. Keeping the plants compact by cutting them back to 12 to 18 inches from the ground encourages fuller growth and a vibrant display. Remember to stop pruning by early September, as the buds set in early October.
While enjoying your poinsettias, be vigilant for pests like spider mites, which thrive in dry conditions. Combat these pests with miticides or by regularly spraying the leaves with water. For those looking for a natural approach, daily misting can also help deter whiteflies.
If you’re considering using poinsettias as cut flowers, treat the stems immediately to prevent wilting. Immerse the cut ends in hot water for about a minute, then place them in cold water for longer-lasting beauty.
Thinking ahead? Don’t discard your potted plant after the last leaf drops! With proper care, it can bloom again next year. Store it in a cool, dark place and water sparingly to promote hibernation. Come February, cut off the dead top and transplant it into the ground for optimal growth.
For more expert tips, consider joining the UH Master Gardener Program. Interested individuals can call 981-5199 at the Hilo Komohana Agriculture Complex or 322-4893 in Kona for details on gardening techniques.
Don’t wait—get your poinsettias now and make your holidays bright! Share this news with fellow gardening enthusiasts and spread the cheer!
