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By BIRGITT THORNHILL
The 4-H Livestock Chib wfll be selling poinsettias again this year on Thursday and Friday, December 13 and 14 at the Rappahannock Elementary School, Wakefield and at the Extension Office. The cost of the plants will be $4 for the small size, $6.60 for large ones and $20 for hanging baskets, which must be ordered through the Extension Office.
Poinsettia plants are normally sold according to the number of blooms. When purchasing, look for a compact plant with large, colorftil bracts and dark green leaves from the bracts to the base of the plant. Beware of those plants in which the true flowers have dropped off. This is a sign of over-mar turity, and the plant will not last long in the home. Plants with fresh flowers will last more than a month.
After purchasing, be carefol to protect it from bruising and chilling. Sudden drops in temperature to 60 degrees F or below are likely to cause the leaves to wilt and flower bracts to drop.
The proper temperature for poinsettias is between 70 and 75 degrees F, but not less than 60 degrees F at night.
Correct watering is essential. When the soil appears light in color or feels dry when touched, then it should be watered thoroughly. If the pot is wrapped with decorative metal or plastic foil, the foil covering the bottom of the pot should have a hole punched in it to allow excess water to drain away.
About one month to six weeks after receiving the plant, the leaves will foil and you will have only a dormant stem left. The plant is going into its rest period, and the amount of water should be reduced gradually until you are giving it only enough to keep the stem from shriveling. Place the plant in a cool location, 45 to 66 degrees F. In.
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