Question
DO I NEED TO CUT THE ABOVE PLANT DOWN. VERY LEGGY AND FEW LEAVES AT BOTTOM OF STEM, GROWN FROM SMALL PLANT FROM 2005  

Answer
Hi Joan,

Now is the time to prune back Poinsettias sharply. Look for new sprouts down low on stems and cut just above the lowest sprout on any stem. If you don't see any sprouts, then cut back the stems by half to two-thirds.

I know that will leave your Poinsettia looking rather leafless and pathetic, but assuming the roots are healthy, the light is good and you water properly, then you will soon get lots of healthy new growth.

This pruning will help you get a full, compact plant.

I have written an article on flowering holiday plants and how to get them to rebloom. It includes Poinsettia, Christmas cactus and Amaryllis. Anyone interested in reblooming their holiday plants should contact me by email and request my article so you will know what to do.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

Visit my website at  www.HorticulturalHelp.com

If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.

If this information has been helpful, please take the time to give me a rating and nomination.

  
Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]