Garden Tips Newsletter
Christmas Ideas and Tips
December 8, 2008
Poke Holes in Gift Wrapping
Yes, that is exactly what I said. It is perfectly okay as long as the gift wrappring is around a potted plant. Not okay and definitely naughty, otherwise.
Poking a few holes in the decorative foil
or wrapping of gift plants such as poinsettias, Norfolk Island pines,
kalanchoe, or Christmas cactus will keep the soil draining freely and
help prevent overwatering.
Overwatering, as we all know, is the number one killer of houseplants. Better yet, take that wrapping completely off and put the pot inside a lined basket or cachepot that has a layer of stones (washed gravel from the driveway) in the bottom to raise the pot above any standing water.
Strange-Colored Poinsettias
Speckled, multi-colored blooms in shades of maroon and white (Go Dogs!), pink, peach, even yellow selections of poinsettias are catching on fast. Regardless of the color you prefer, choose a fresh plant that will last through the holidays. Buds in the center of the bloom should be small and green. They will eventually open into little yellow flowers. If these are dropping off, the plant is past its prime. The bracts or petals should be fully colored without too much green, and the plant should have strong stems and green leaves.
Christmas Tree Tips
If you buy a cut tree, here are a few quick tests for freshness. Bend the needles back to see how pliable they are. Hold the tree by the trunk, and give it a firm shade to see if it retains its needles. Once you’ve got the tree home, cut at least 2 inches off the base to help with water movement up the trunk. When it’s in the stand, check the water level daily, and never let it fall below the base of the trunk.
The trend this year for those who want to be green is to buy a living potted tree that can be planted out in the yard after the holidays. Shop for these at your favorite nursery or garden center. While the containerized tree is indoors being a Christmas tree, definitely try to situate it away from heat sources, in an area of adequate light, and keep it watered.
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Lelia Scott Kelly, Ph.D., writes Garden Tips weekly and is a Horticulture Specialist with the Mississippi State University Extension Service. Her office is in the North Mississippi Research & Extension Center, Verona.