For many people, the Christmas star is an integral part of their home's Christmas decorations. But it doesn't just cut a fine figure as a pot plant with its colorful bracts. Poinsettias also look very decorative as cut flowers in a vase. With proper care, the cut stems will last up to two weeks.
How do I prepare a poinsettia as a cut flower?
To use the poinsettia as a cut flower, cut the stems diagonally, hold the cut ends briefly in hot water and rinse them with cold water, or seal them with fire. In the vase they need cool water, freshness agents and a cool, not drafty location.
Poinsettia as a cut flower for vases and arrangements
Long poinsettia stems are wonderful for bouquets that, together with fir branches and corkscrew hazels, spread a Christmas atmosphere.
If the stems are too short, use the poinsettias for Advent arrangements that harmonize very well with Christmas balls and pine cones. Advent wreaths can also be decorated with it.
Prepare the stems for the vase
The poinsettia is a member of the spurge family. It contains a toxic milky sap that emerges from the interfaces. In order for the poinsettia to last a long time as a cut flower, you must prevent too much sap from running out.
Cut the stems diagonally. Place the stem ends in very hot water for a short time and then rinse them again with cold water. Alternatively, you can use a lighter or candle to seal the cut ends.
Afterwards you are not allowed to cut the poinsettia again.
Caring for the poinsettia in the vase
- Use cool water, not too cold
- Add freshener
- cool, not draughty location
- If necessary, keep cold at night
- Refill water if necessary
The vase should be so high that a third of the stems are submerged in water.
Never add sugar or other substances to the vase water to keep the poinsettia fresh longer as a cut flower. It is better to use a fresh-keeping agent.
Refill the vase water regularly. If you have placed the stems in the water without any freshness agent, change the water daily. Rinse the stems well with cold water before putting them back in the vase. But under no circumstances should you cut them again.
Tip
Since the poinsettia is particularly poisonous to cats and other pets, place bouquets and arrangements out of the reach of animals. Later, throw away the vase water immediately as there may be remaining milky juice in it.
