By Becker County
Master Gardeners

Poinsettias are among the easiest holiday plants to grow. First, you must choose a healthy one, and get it home without suffering any cold damage. It should be wrapped well, then transported in a heated vehicle, not left in the car while you do other shopping. Cut the bottom of the decorative pot covering so excess water drains out, and place the poinsettia in a bright, sunny location. Water thoroughly when the soil surface begins to dry, and then fertilize monthly after four to six weeks.

Prevent pest problems on houseplants. Checks for insects especially on the underside of leaves.  Remove fallen plant debris from the soil surface.  Remove dust from leaves by wiping them off or rinsing the plant in the sink or shower.

The best way to keep icy sidewalks, steps and driveways sage without damaging nearby plants is to rely primarily on sand or grit, rather than de-icing products. If necessary, mix a small amount of deicer or lawn fertilizer into the sand. The fertilizer or deicer will run off eventually, and accumulate in the soil. The more you use over the winter, the more likely that plants will be burned by deicer or fertilizer salts.