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Orchid Care and Handling

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LIGHT. Orchids grow well near bright windows, with no direct sun light. An east window is ideal in the home; shaded south or west windows are acceptable. In dull, northern winter climates, a full southern exposure may be required. Artificial lighting is acceptable. Two- or four-tube fixtures are suspended six inches to one foot above the foliage, 12 to 16 hours daily. If leaves are hot, reduced light intensity. WATER is especially critical for this orchid. The medium should never be allowed to dry out completely. Plants should be thoroughly watered and not watered again until nearly dry, but not until...

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Poinsettia Care and Handling

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Unpacking When you receive your poinsettias, unpack them immediately.  Poinsettias naturally produce ethylene.  Keeping them boxed and/or sleeved too long can trap the ethylene, which could lead to droopy plants. When you handle poinsettias, avoid lifting them by the shipping sleeve as this may lead to bract breakage.  Always handle the plant by the pot.  Rather than risking bract damage by sliding the sleeve off of the plant, carefully cut the sleeve from the bottom to the top, allowing for the sleeve to be unwrapped from the plant. Watering Check soil dryness by sticking your finger in the soil about...

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