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Post Holiday Plant Care: Poinsettias, Christmas Cactus, Cyclamen, Lemon Cypress & More

The holiday season brings a burst of festive greenery into our homes, from the vibrant red poinsettias to the delicate blooms of cyclamen. Now that the holidays have passed, it’s time to shift our focus to post-holiday plant care. Ensuring the health and longevity of these seasonal favorites requires a bit of extra attention. In this guide, we’ll delve into the care and maintenance of post-holiday plants, including poinsettias, Christmas cactus, cyclamen, lemon cypress, and more.

Poinsettias (Euphorbia pulcherrima)

1. Light: Place your poinsettia in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.

2. Temperature: Maintain a warm environment. Poinsettias prefer temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C).

3. Watering: Allow the soil to dry slightly between watering, but don’t let it completely dry out. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry.

4. Pruning: After the holidays, trim the plant back to about 6 inches in height to promote bushier growth.

5. Fertilizing: Feed your poinsettia with a balanced, all-purpose liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.

• Learn more about poinsettia care at The Old Farmer’s Almanac.

Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera)

1. Light: Keep it in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun, which can cause leaf burn.

2. Temperature: Maintain a temperature range between 70-80°F (21-27°C) during the growing season.

3. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist during the active growth period, reducing water slightly in late autumn and winter.

4. Pruning: Trim leggy or damaged stems after flowering to encourage new growth.

5. Fertilizing: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.

• Find more information on Christmas cactus care from University of Florida IFAS Extension.

Cyclamen (Cyclamen persicum)

1. Light: Cyclamen prefers bright, indirect light.

2. Temperature: Keep your cyclamen in a cool room with temperatures around 50-65°F (10-18°C).

3. Watering: Water from the bottom to avoid getting water on the corm. Keep the soil evenly moist.

4. Pruning: Remove faded flowers and yellowing leaves promptly.

5. Fertilizing: Fertilize with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.

• Visit The Royal Horticultural Society for more on caring for cyclamen.

Lemon Cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa)

1. Light: Place your lemon cypress in bright, indirect light or direct sunlight.

2. Temperature: Lemon cypress prefers cool temperatures between 45-60°F (7-15°C).

3. Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy. Ensure good drainage.

4. Pruning: Prune to maintain the desired shape and size. Lemon cypress can be shaped into various forms.

5. Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer.

 

Other Holiday Plants

For other holiday plants like amaryllis, Norfolk Island pine, and orchids, follow specific care instructions for each type. Generally, keep them in bright, indirect light, maintain appropriate temperature ranges, and provide proper watering and fertilization as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I keep my poinsettia for the next holiday season?

• Yes, with proper care, poinsettias can be encouraged to bloom again next year. Follow these instructions for re-blooming.

2. How often should I water my Christmas cactus?

• Christmas cacti prefer evenly moist soil. Water when the top inch of soil is dry, usually every 2-3 weeks.

3. What is the best temperature range for cyclamen during its dormant period?

• Cyclamen should be kept in a cooler environment with temperatures around 40-50°F (4-10°C) during dormancy.

4. How do I shape my lemon cypress into specific forms?

• Lemon cypress can be pruned and shaped into various forms like spirals or cones by careful pruning of the branches. Here’s a guide to shaping techniques.

5. What’s the typical lifespan of holiday plants like amaryllis and Norfolk Island pine?

• With proper care, these plants can thrive for many years. Amaryllis can live for decades, while Norfolk Island pine can grow and live for many years indoors.

6. What are common pests and diseases that affect holiday plants, and how can I deal with them?

• Common issues include aphids, mealybugs, and root rot. This guide from Purdue Extension offers tips on identifying and addressing these problems.