When buying poinsettias, it's difficult to get the plant home without a broken stem or two. Instead of throwing the stem away, use it for a lovely Christmas arrangement or centerpiece.
Light a pillar candle so your hands can remain free. Have a napkin handy to use for blotting the sap. Hold the end of the stem over the flame and sear it. It will bubble a little. Place the stem in tepid water mixed with floral preservative. If placed correctly, the stem will remain upright. If it droops, cut off a little of the stem and sear it again. If you change the water every day, it can last from 7 to 10 days.
The stems look great in vases, colored bottles, bowls, or buckets. Add berries or cuttings from cedars, hollies, etc., to create a decorative touch.
Charla Antal, Smith County Master Gardener
Texas Cooperative Extension
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