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CELEBRATE POINSETTIA DAY - Page 2

© Barbara M. Martin

Another pest to watch for is the fungus gnat. This one looks like a tiny black fruit fly. It lives in overly damp soil and tends to erupt when the plants are kept on display for a while and are overwatered by untrained personnel.

Luckily, fungus gnats are easily controlled at home: simply place a thin layer of sand or fine gravel over the soil surface and take care not to overwater; the little pest should disappear in about ten days. The pesky little flies darting about are a bit distracting, though, so you might want to pass on a plant infested with these.

Avoid any plants showing wilted, damaged or discolored foliage and select one with an overall "perky" look. Remember to check the center bloom for buds.

Now, for the final choice, rotate your selection to view it from all sides. If you expect to display the plant where it will be admired in the round, as a table centerpiece for example, make sure it is well developed on all sides.

For a one-sided display, as on a hall table against the wall for example, look for an individual plant that is particularly full and wide across one side but relatively flat on the back as occasionally happens in the greenhouse.

Now that you know what to look for and what to avoid, you are all set to celebrate National Poinsettia Day with confidence! And remember, shop till you drop!

Related Web Site:

All About Today's Poinsettias -- home care, history, legends, and National Poinsettia Day -- and more, from the deservedly famous Paul Ecke Ranch

ENJOY!

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