Elkridge, Md.— Bell Nursery, the largest grower of plant material in the Mid-Atlantic and one of the largest growers in the nation, will move more than 1 million poinsettia plants in a dozen varieties of red, white and pink, through The Home Depot registers this holiday season.
A tropical plant native to Mexico, the poinsettia was brought to the United States in 1825 by Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first United States Minister to Mexico. Since that time, the poinsettia has become one of the most popular holiday plants. Although, traditionally known for their bright red color, poinsettias come in several hues.
This year, Bell Nursery has grown more than a dozen designer poinsettia varieties such as “Superba New Glitter” and “Christmas Magic.”
With the holiday season fast approaching, Bell Nursery offers three simple tips to help your poinsettias look their best:
Pick a healthy plant. The longevity of a poinsettia plant can be dependent on its purchased condition. Select a plant that has bright green leaves and colorful sturdy bracts. After returning home with the plant, remove its protective covering and place in a location that receives indirect sunlight.
Water the plant regularly. Practicing proper watering techniques is important to the survival of all plants. Poinsettias should be watered when the plant’s soil is dry. A great way to water it is to take the plant to the sink, remove the foil wrapping and add water to the soil. The foil wrapping can be replaced, after the excess water has drained from the plant. The plant can also be placed in a saucer and the foil wrapping can be punctured at the bottom of the plant to allow drainage.
Avoid direct sunlight. Because poinsettias are tropical plants, they do require some sunlight. But, placing the plant in direct sunlight can cause damage to the plant’s leaves. Extreme low or high temperatures and drafts should also be avoided.
Poinsettias are wonderful additions to holiday decor; they also make great hostess gifts. For additional holiday decorating inspiration and Bell Nursery products, visit: www.bellnursery.com.