News » 29.08.2025 - Almeria's growers begin cultivating over 3 million poinsettias
While much of the country is enjoying summer, Almeria's greenhouses are already growing the plant that signifies Christmas: the poinsettia. In July and August, Almeria growers begin cultivating over 3 million units of this iconic plant, which will be ready to brighten homes across Spain with color from mid-November onward.
"People are surprised to learn that in the middle of August, we are already working on Christmas," stated Javier Luque, the technical manager of Semilleros Laimund, a company that expects to produce 330,000 poinsettias this season in various formats. "Most of them are in 14-centimeter pots, but we also make cups and other sizes. We grow red, white, and pink varieties. However, red is still the dominant color," he stated.
Cultivation is staggered: the large formats are planted in mid-July, while the smaller ones are sown during August and September. After transplanting, it is time to clamp, and each plant receives its own dripper to ensure uniform development. "Everything is designed so that the plant reaches its optimum point just in time for the Christmas season," he added.
Meanwhile, Solisplant, which will produce 275,000 of its own plants and sell up to 365,000 units, highlighted the artisanal nature of the crop. "The poinsettia is very demanding: any change in light, water, or temperature is immediately noticeable. This plant requires constant attention," stated Jordi Solis, the company's manager. "There are days when we return to the farm in the afternoon just to make sure that the irrigation was adequate. It is a delicate plant, but this year it's particularly beautiful."
In addition to providing intensive care, the company is dedicated to sustainable practices like biological pest control. "We try to avoid using chemicals as much as possible. We are increasingly managing growth with light and employing natural controls for pests such as whitefly. The results are noticeable," Jordi Solís emphasized.
Both companies are part of Plantaespaña, the brand that unites national poinsettia producers. "We want consumers to know that many of the plants they buy at their florist's shop or supermarket are locally grown and carefully cultivated in Almeria," said Francisco Rubio, Plantaespaña's manager. "We have a unique advantage: the sunlight from the south, which allows us to grow stronger and more resilient plants without having to force them, as is common in northern Europe."
Spain remains the primary market, but nearly 15% of production is exported to countries like France, Portugal, and even northern Italy. "Our clients appreciate that our poinsettias are more resistant in stores and have a longer shelf life. They are grown with natural light and fewer pesticides. As a result, they are healthier and more beautiful," Plantaespaña stated.
A star plant, but with tight margins
Despite the demand and care it requires, the poinsettia has become an attractive product for retail, but with very slim margins. "It's like nougat or cava: Everyone wants to have it cheap to attract customers, but behind it, there is a lot of work and a very delicate crop," Jordi stated.
The poinsettia that decorates millions of American homes in December begins its life under the July and August sun in the greenhouses of Almeria. While its presence in Christmas catalogs is fleeting, behind each plant there are months of work, innovation, and passion for a tradition that continues to thrive thanks to the efforts of ornamental plant growers.
Source: www.floraldaily.com
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