Keep Poinsettias Looking Healthy

Want a few tips on keeping your holiday poinsettias looking good? Start off by selecting a plant that has leaves all the way to the soil line--an indication of a healthy root system. When taking your plant home, protect it from temperatures below 50 degrees because this makes the leaves drop.

Water the plant thoroughly so all the soil is saturated and water seeps through the drain hole, but never let your poinsettia sit in water. After that, check it daily and water again when the soil feels dry to the touch. Fertilize the plant within a few days, using whatever method you prefer.

Poinsettias must have at least six hours of bright indirect light each day to be at their best; choose a place away from drafts, radiators or heat registers. To preserve the bright color of the petal-like bracts, the temperature should not exceed 72 degrees during the day or 60 degrees at night.