How to Extend the Life of Your Holiday Plants 🎄

Holiday plants bring warmth, colour, and cheer into our homes during the coldest months, but with a little care, they can last far beyond the festive season.

Here’s how to keep your favourites thriving well into the new year. 

(boughs, trees, planters, wreaths & swags)
Evergreens are long-lasting, but they dry out quickly indoors if not properly cared for.

How to extend their life:

• Keep them cool: Avoid placing them near fireplaces, vents, or radiators.

• Mist regularly: Light misting helps prevent needles from drying out.

• Hydrate well (trees & planters): Check the water daily: fresh trees can drink litres in the first days.

• Use anti-desiccant spray: Products like Wilt-Pruf help lock in moisture on outdoor evergreen décor.

• Trim ends (for arrangements): Cutting stems at a fresh angle helps boughs last longer.

The classic holiday showstopper; colourful, long-lasting, and surprisingly easy to care for.

How to extend their life:

• Bright, indirect light: A sunny room is ideal, but avoid direct sun.

• Keep warm: Poinsettias hate drafts and cold windows.

• Water only when needed: Allow the top inch of soil to dry before watering. Never let it sit in water.

• Remove decorative foil: Or poke drainage holes so excess water can escape.

• Rotate weekly: Helps the plant stay full and symmetrical.

Unlike most cacti, this plant thrives on humidity and regular watering.

How to extend its life:

• Bright, indirect light: Avoid harsh sun that can yellow or burn the leaves.

• Even moisture: Keep soil lightly moist, never fully dry.

• Cool nights = more blooms: Temperatures around 15–18°C encourage flowers.

• Avoid moving it: Once buds form, movement can cause them to drop.

• Add humidity: Pebble trays or misting help during winter dryness.

A beautiful indoor tree that prefers a gentle touch.

How to extend its life:

• Bright light: A south or east-facing window is ideal.

• Consistent moisture: Water when the top soil feels dry, but don’t overwater.

• Cooler temperatures: Norfolk Pines thrive between 16–21°C.

• No heavy ornaments: Their branches are delicate, so keep décor light.

• Humidity is key: They dislike dry, heated homes. Mist regularly or use a humidifier.

One of the easiest blooming bulbs for winter, and you can save it for next year.

How to extend its life:

• Bright light: Place in a sunny spot while it grows and blooms.

• Turn the plant every few days: Prevents leaning as it stretches toward light.

• Water sparingly: Keep soil slightly moist during growth; avoid soggy roots.

• After blooming, cut the flower stalk: Leave the leaves intact, as they rebuild the bulb.

• Keep it going: Continue watering and feeding through spring, then let it go dormant for re-blooming next year.