poinsettia

[lilypops]

How do you make the leaves of a poinsettia turn red? I managed to keep my plant alive from last christmas there are still a few red leaves but all the new growth is green, could anyone help out

[skylight]

Plants can be reflowered, although the procedure is somewhat demanding. Keep the plant indoors until the danger of frost has passed then move it outdoors. Remove the bracts when they wither and discolor. Keep the plant in high indirect light (morning sun/afternoon shade). Water and fertilize on a regular basis. Shape the plant as desired by pruning or pinching to encourage branching. Do not pinch after mid-August. Bring the plant back indoors when night temperatures start to fall below 60�F. Continue to fertilize and water. Starting October 1, give the plant 14 hours of uninterrupted darkness daily until bract color is well developed (mid-November). This can be done by placing the plant in a closet or covering it with a cardboard box at night. Any light during the dark period will delay or inhibit flowering. Night temperatures should be between 60�F and 62�F. During the remaining 10 hours each day, provide maximum light with temperatures between 70�F and 75�F. You would probably be better buying a new one. Skylight

[skyep]

lilypops - Just had a look at a plant book for you. " How to make a Poin - bloom again next year " When leaves have fallen, cut back the stems to leave stumps 4" high. The compost should be kept almost dry & the pot placed in a mild, shady position. In early May water & repot the plant, removing some of the old compost. Continue watering & shoots will soon appear. Feed regularly & 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 from early evening & remove next morning so that the plant is kept in total darkness for 14 hours. Continue daily for 8 weeks , then treat normally. Bit of a challenge! :0)

[lilypops]

Thanks for the tips I'll try them out & let you know the results
Cheers!