Meghan Trainor’s Poinsettia Decor Has Inspired Me to Think Beyond the Holidays – Here’s How to Keep Color Until Spring
Inspired by Meghan Trainor, learn how to grow poinsettias as long-flowering houseplants with tips on light, watering, temperature, and décor ideas.
When Meghan Trainor recently posted a snap of her Christmas tree blooming with cheerful poinsettias, it wasn’t just a festive flex on her part; it was a reminder to all of us that these beauties aren’t just holiday décor. With the right poinsettia care, these festive beauties can bring eye-catching color indoors for months on end, delighting everyone from gardeners and serious plant parents to those with nothing more than a green pinky.
And, yes. Just like Meghan’s killer vocal range, these stunners can stick around long after the ornaments have been packed away.
Choose the Right Plant (and Don’t Judge It by the Foil)
Before you start obsessing over poinsettias after the holiday season, you’ll want to pick a healthy one to begin with. This one from Walmart grows up to 16 inches!
Here are some tips for picking the right poinsettia: Look for bright, fully formed bracts (those colorful leaves most people think are “flowers”), deep green foliage, and firm stems. Avoid plants with yellowing leaves or soggy soil.
Pro Tip: When your poinsettia is ready to be “rehoused,” a decorative pot is always important, but so is drainage; in fact, it’s key. A simple indoor planter like this one from Target allows roots to breathe and prevents overwatering.
Light: Bright and Cheerful – Just Like the Song
One reason poinsettias get a bad rap? People assume they require special light conditions. But, believe it or not, they don’t. They love bright, indirect light. Think, the kind of light you would gladly sit in while you sip your coffee, not the harsh midday sun that makes you have to squint, lest you burn your retinas.
Place your poinsettia near a sunny window with sheer curtains or use a grow light, like this LED lamp from Amazon, if your space doesn’t get a lot of natural light.
Pro Tip: Rotate it weekly to make sure all sides get sun exposure. This helps prevent one-sided growth and keeps your plant looking lush and even.
Watering Without Tears
Watering poinsettias is basically like walking the line between “just right” and “oops.” Here are a few tips:
- Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Water deeply so excess flows out the bottom, but DO NOT FORGET to empty the saucer. Think of this as the plant version of “walking it off.”
- Avoid waterlogged soil at all costs; poinsettias hate soggy roots.
This 4-in-1 moisture meter from Amazon takes the guesswork out of watering, and also checks soil temperature, pH, and light levels.
Temperature: Cozy, Not Arctic or Tropical
Like Goldilocks, poinsettias like it not too hot and not too cold; think human living room vibes. Ideally, keep the room temperature around 65–75°F (18–24°C). Keep them away from cold drafts from windows or doors as well as avoiding heaters or fireplaces that blast dry air and can make the leaves fall off.
Decor Tips That Don’t Disappoint
Poinsettias aren’t just average houseplants; they’re the epitome of a décor hero. Try these ideas for decorating:
- Group different poinsettia colors and sizes in a sunny corner.
- Use an elevated stand like this one from Lowe’s to create a mini indoor garden canopy.
- Mix in some evergreen branches or battery-operated candles.
Poinsettias don’t need to be wallflowers that are only displayed at Christmas. With the right light, watering, and daily care, you can make them a striking fixture in your house until spring.
