The symbol of Christmas outdoors is the Holly with
    its bright red berries. Indoors it is now the Poinsettia
    (proper name Euphorbia pulcherrima) with its large,
    scarlet flower-heads. This was not always so - in
    the early 1960s it was a tall-growing shrub which was
    distinctly difficult to keep in leaf or flower in the
    average home. Things have changed - modern
    varieties are bushier, more attractive and much less
    delicate - in addition modern chemicals are used
    to keep the plants small. The result is that the
    Poinsettia of today is compact (1-1 1/2ft high) and the
    flowers (which are really coloured bracts) should
    last for 2-6 months. When buying a plant look at the
    true flowers (yellow and tiny in the centre of the
    flower-head); they should be unopened for
    maximum flower life. Also the plant should not have
    been stood outdoors or in an icy shop. Once in your
    living room put it in a well-lit spot away from
    draughts and keep it reasonably warm.
        
        Tips for Success
    Temperature: Average warmth - minimum 55ø-60øF
      during the flowering season.
    Light; Maximum light during winter - protect from hot
      summer sun if plant is to be kept for next Christmas.
    Water: Water thoroughly - wait until compost is
      moderately dry before watering again. Water
      immediately if leaves begin to wilt. Water more liberally
      in summer. DO-NOT let it COMPLETELY dry or leaves will
      wilt, yellow and DIE.
    Air Humidity: Mist leaves frequently during the flowering
      season.
    Care Atter Flowering: Plant should be discarded, but if you
      like a challenge it can be kept and will bloom again next
      Christmas. The lighting will have to be very carefully
      controlled in autumn - see detailed instructions on this
      BELOW.
    Propagation: Take stem cuttings in early summer. Use a
      rooting hormone.  


HOW to make a Poinsettia Bloom again Next Christmas

When the leaves have fallen cut back the stems to leave        
stumps 4 in. high. The compost should be kept almost             
dry and the pot placed in a mild, shady position. In early       
May water and repot the plant, removing some of the              
old compost. Continue watering and shoots will soon             
appear. Feed regularly and remove some of the new               
growth to leave 4-5 strong new stems. The prunings can          
be used as cuttings.                                              
From the end of September careful light control is             
essential. Cover with a black polythene bag (or large
cardboard box) from early evening and remove next morning 
so that ths plant is kept in total darkness for 14 hours. 
Continue daily for 8 weeks, then treat normaly. Your 
Poinsettia will again be in bloom at Christmas time, 
but it will be taller than the plant you bought.