from Jim Appleby, University of Illinois Extension
1.
When the leaves fall, cut back the stems to 4-inch-high stumps.
2.
Keep the compost almost dry and the pot in a mild, shady area
3.
Water thoroughly and repot the plant in early May, removing some of the
old compost. Continue to water and shoots will soon appear.
4.
Feed plant regularly and remove some new growth to leave four to five
strong new stems. Prunings can be used as cuttings.
5.
Careful light control is essential from late September. From early
evening to morning, cover with a black plastic bag so the plant is kept
in total darkness for 14 hours. Proceed daily for eight weeks, then
treat normally. You plant will bloom at Christmas time but it will be
taller than is was the previous year.
Illinois Gardener
1.
When the leaves fall, cut back the stems to 4-inch-high stumps.
2.
Keep the compost almost dry and the pot in a mild, shady area
3.
Water thoroughly and repot the plant in early May, removing some of the
old compost. Continue to water and shoots will soon appear.
4.
Feed plant regularly and remove some new growth to leave four to five
strong new stems. Prunings can be used as cuttings.
5.
Careful light control is essential from late September. From early
evening to morning, cover with a black plastic bag so the plant is kept
in total darkness for 14 hours. Proceed daily for eight weeks, then
treat normally. You plant will bloom at Christmas time but it will be
taller than is was the previous year.