Holiday Plant Care Tips

Azalea

Azaleas can only survive indoors for two to four weeks before they begin to suffer from the warmth and dry air. For best results:

• Plant in a container or in the ground in a partly shady or shady location.
• For pot planting, use high-quality potting soil and place it in a pot one size larger than the original container.
• For ground planting, dig a hole twice the size of the azalea’s root ball and fill with azalea mix.

Forced Bulbs

Many nursery professionals recommend discarding bulbs that have been forced to bloom in water, sand, or pebbles. However, bulbs forced in soil can often be planted in the ground to resume their growth cycle.

• Amaryllis bulbs do well when replanted and may even bloom again in summer.
• Other bulbs, like narcissus, can be stored until the next season. Shake off dirt, apply sulfur dust to prevent molding, and store in a cool place.

Chrysanthemum

Chrysanthemums bloom for two to three weeks indoors. They require:

• A sunny window
• Moist (but not overly wet) soil

After blooms fade, plant outdoors in a well-draining, full-sun location with amended compost.

Cyclamen

Cyclamen are often overwatered. These bulb-like roots require minimal water. For best care:

• Water only when the soil is dry.
• They grow best outdoors in cooler temperatures. Avoid keeping them indoors for longer than two weeks.
• If planted outdoors in a sheltered spot with indirect light, cyclamen can provide year-round blooms.

Kalanchoe

Kalanchoe succulents are colorful and bloom indoors for several weeks. For optimal care:

• Keep in medium to bright light and let the plant dry slightly between waterings.
• They can be kept indoors but thrive outdoors in any exposure, from shade to full sun.
• Ensure good drainage when planting in the ground.

Poinsettias

Poinsettias typically last for a couple of months indoors. When the holidays end:

• Plant them outdoors in a sunny spot after the risk of frost has passed (late March).
• Ensure the soil drains well. Consider adding sponge rock and azalea mix to lighten the soil.
• To get blooms next year, plant in a location free of street lights and provide 12 hours of darkness daily starting in October.

Topiaries

Topiaries often come in pots that are too small for their foliage, making them top-heavy. For best results:

• Repot them in a larger pot with high-quality potting soil.
• Herb topiaries like rosemary can be kept indoors during the holidays but should be moved outdoors once the festivities are over.
• If you have ivy topiaries, watch for spider mites and treat with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil if needed.