Why You Shouldn’t Plant Poinsettias in Your Garden After Christmas
Experts warn against planting poinsettias outdoors post-holidays due to potential issues with growth and skin irritation
Poinsettia, Australia, Christmas, Gardening, Toxicity
Sydney: Poinsettias are those festive plants we all love during Christmas. With their bright red leaves, they really bring the holiday spirit alive. Originally from Mexico, they’ve become super popular in places like Australia, especially around the holidays.
But here’s the thing: after the holidays, many folks think it’s fine to just toss them in the garden. Experts, however, are saying, “Not so fast!” They warn that these plants can actually take over your backyard if you plant them outside.
Professor Brett Summerell from the Botanic Gardens of Sydney explains that while they’re not a big weed problem now, they can grow large and lose their pretty colors. He suggests cutting them up and composting instead. Just make sure to wear gloves, as their milky sap can irritate your skin.
Dr. Carol Booth from the Invasive Species Council adds that while they’re not a major issue yet, there’s a chance they could become one in the future. So, it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Speaking of that sap, it’s not just harmless. It can cause skin irritation and, if ingested in large amounts, might lead to some nasty side effects like vomiting or even temporary blindness if it gets in your eyes. Yikes!
Interestingly, there’s another type called painted spurge, or dwarf poinsettia, which is even more problematic. It’s considered an environmental weed in places like Queensland and NSW, and it can really mess with local plants.
So, if you’re in Australia and thinking about planting those leftover poinsettias, it might be best to rethink that plan. Enjoy them while they last indoors, but let’s keep them out of the garden!