I purchased some Poinsettias from a local retailer. At the time I purchased them they had been exposed to some very cold weather. The leaves are all dying. Should I cut these back and store at this pont or should I just cut the damaged leaves off and leave them alone right now and store them later in the year. I am hoping they will continue to grow and be ready for sale next Christmas season.

Thank you for you help

Judy

How to make your Poinsettia bloom again:

When the leaves have fallen cut back the stems to leave stumps 4" high. The compost should be kept almost dry and the pot placed in a mild, shady location. In early May water and repot the plant, removing some of the old compost. Continue watering and shoots will soon appear. Feed regularly and remove some of the new growth to leave 4-5 strong stems. The prunings can be used as cuttings.

From the end of September careful light control is essential. The plant must be covered with a black polythene bag or box from early evening and remove the next morning so that the plant is kept in total darkness for 14 hours!!! Continue daily for 8 weeks, then treat normally. Your Poinsettia will again be in bloom at Christmas time, but will be taller than the plant you originally bought.

This will be a real challenge for you. Better keep it for your yard and purchase new next year unless you are up for the challenge.