Santa Fe Nurseries Celebrate Holiday Spirit with Poinsettias

The holiday season is in full swing in Santa Fe, with local nurseries showcasing vibrant displays of poinsettias. At Newman’s Nursery, owner Malcom Newman reports that the greenhouse is filled with approximately 5,000 beautifully cultivated plants in shades of red, pink, and white. This annual tradition not only brightens the cold winter months but also reflects the enduring charm of the holiday season.

Newman’s Nursery, founded by his parents in the 1970s, has developed a strong customer base over the decades. Newman recalls knowing he wanted to take over the family business when he was just a child. The nursery has been a staple in the community, but like many local growers, they face challenges. “It’s a challenging crop,” Newman explains, noting that the timing of growth is crucial. If the plants are not perfectly timed, they risk not selling due to their appearance.

To maintain quality, Newman ensures that about 25% to 30% of their stock is preordered each year. This careful planning helps mitigate competition from larger retailers that often offer imported plants at lower prices. “To compete with them, you have to have a really premium plant that just looks a lot better,” he emphasizes.

Growing poinsettias is a delicate process. If the plants are too green or turn red too soon, they won’t sell. Newman advises customers on how to care for their poinsettias to ensure they thrive beyond the holiday season. He suggests repotting them in quality soil and providing them with uninterrupted darkness at night to maintain their color.

Just a few miles north, at Payne’s Nurseries, manager Maria Delgado is witnessing a similar trend. Although the nursery has seen empty tables that once held poinsettias, there is a noticeable urgency among customers eager to purchase their holiday plants. This year, Payne’s has focused on traditional red and white varieties, having previously grown a wider range of colors.

Delgado recalls the experience of transporting and nurturing the poinsettias from their former location at St. Michael’s to their new site on Camino Alire. “It was such a beautiful experience,” she says, reflecting on the staff’s learning journey regarding soil and watering preferences. The anticipation of watching these plants grow from small sprouts to vibrant holiday decorations has enriched the staff’s connection to the plants.

The nurseries serve not only as places to buy plants but also as community hubs where locals can find joy in the festive colors. Delgado notes, “This is our little red paradise for these months,” highlighting the warmth and cheer that poinsettias bring during the winter season.

As Christmas approaches, both Newman’s and Payne’s Nurseries stand ready to spread holiday cheer, offering their customers a chance to bring a piece of that warmth into their homes. With a commitment to quality and community, these local businesses continue to thrive amid changing market dynamics.