Tip for Potted Poinsettia: The poinsettia, also known as the "pouch flower," is sensitive to temperature and thrives in cool conditions. During the seedling stage, it prefers daytime temperatures of around 20°C and nighttime temperatures of about 10°C. In winter, the ideal temperature range for potted plants is between 7°C and 10°C, while in spring, it should be slightly warmer, between 10°C and 13°C. It's important not to let the temperature drop below 3°C during winter, as this can harm the plant. Temperatures above 20°C may hinder its growth and flowering. The best temperature during blooming is 10°C, which helps extend the viewing period. Potted poinsettias require consistent moisture but are sensitive to overwatering. The soil should remain moist, especially during the growth phase of stems and leaves. If the soil dries out even slightly, the leaves may wilt quickly. However, if the soil becomes too wet, especially in colder rooms, the roots can easily rot. Avoid misting the leaves directly, as this can lead to leaf rot. After removing the flowering branches, allow the soil to dry slightly but not completely, which helps prevent excessive stem and leaf growth. Poinsettias are long-day plants that respond well to light. Seedlings need bright, indirect light to grow strong and resist disease. While they enjoy sunlight, too much direct sun can cause damage, so some shading is recommended. To encourage early flowering, providing 14 hours of daylight can help promote bud formation and shorten the growth cycle. Use a well-draining, fertile sandy loam soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5. A mix of garden soil, compost, and fine sand works well for potting. Propagation Methods: Poinsettias are commonly propagated through seeds. The seeds are small, with approximately 25,000 seeds per gram. Germination occurs best at temperatures between 18°C and 21°C. Indoor sowing is typically done from August to September. Sowing too early may result in weak seedlings due to high temperatures, while sowing too late may delay flowering. Before planting, ensure the soil is sterilized. When sowing, gently sprinkle the seeds on the surface without covering them. Place the pots in a semi-shaded area, water from the bottom, and cover with glass or plastic. Germination usually takes 7 to 10 days. Once the cotyledons appear, thin the seedlings and provide proper ventilation while maintaining humidity. Keep the room temperature between 16°C and 18°C. Cultivation Management: About 20 days after sowing, when the seedlings reach 2.5 cm in height, transplant them into fresh soil. Thirty days after transplanting, when the height reaches 5 cm, move them to a 10-15 cm pot. Maintain a room temperature of 10°C to 12°C. For earlier flowering, you can provide 6 to 8 hours of additional light daily. Ensure good ventilation and shade during the growing season to prevent pests and leaf burn. Fertilize every two weeks, but avoid excessive nitrogen, as it can lead to leggy growth. Add phosphorus and potassium fertilizers once or twice after the flowering branch appears. Remove lateral buds between the leaves promptly to maintain a neat shape and prevent overcrowding of flowers. In large-scale production, applying 0.2% to 0.3% CCC (chlonorm) solution 1 to 2 times when the main bud begins to grow can help control plant height and improve appearance. During the flowering period, water carefully and keep the temperature between 8°C and 10°C. Perform manual pollination to increase seed set. During fruiting, increase ventilation and shading to ensure full maturation. High temperatures and humidity can cause fruits to fail to mature, leading to plant death. Pest Control: High humidity and temperature can lead to root rot and Other physiological issues. Proper ventilation and shading are essential. Aphids and insect pests may attack the leaves and flowering stems, so spraying with 40% dimethoate diluted 1500 times is effective. Post-Flowering Care: The poinsettia is a popular holiday plant, especially around the Spring Festival, with its striking red bracts adding a festive touch. It’s often used in homes, hotels, and shopping centers to create a lively atmosphere. Placing a few potted poinsettias on a windowsill, balcony, or in a guest room can bring vibrant color and energy. In kindergartens, yellow varieties can inspire children’s interest in biology. However, poinsettias are prone to ethylene damage during transport, which can cause flowers to fall off and reduce their ornamental value. To prevent this, spray the plants with a 0.2–0.5 mM silver thiosulfate (STS) solution about two weeks before shipping to preserve their quality and commercial value. Stainless Steel Supporting Washers,M27 Self-Locking Washers,Stainless Steel Washers,Double Fold Self-Locking Washer Kunshan Zhonggu Precision Hardware Co., Ltd. , https://www.zgfastener.com