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Poinsettias do best with moist soil — not too wet or too dry. Water the poinsettia thoroughly when the soil surface feels dry to a light touch. The best indication of thorough watering is when the water begins to seep through the drain hole at the bottom of the inner pot.
Water just enough so the water barely begins to seep through these holes. Be sure to discard any excess water, as poinsettias left sitting in water may suffer permanent rootrot damage.
It is not necessary to fertilize your poinsettias when they are in bloom during the holiday season. A balanced, all-purpose household plant fertilizer with a 10-5-10 mixture wouldn’t hurt and could help maintain the rich, green foliage color and promote new growth after the holidays. Be sure to follow the directions on the label.
Poinsettias are sensitive to cold winds, chilling temperatures, frost, and rain. Chill damage will occur if poinsettias are exposed to temperature below 50° F, causing the plants to drop their leaves quickly.
Be aware that exposure to frost, even for a short time, will usually result in the death of a poinsettia plant.
Even if you don’t have a green thumb, you may continue to enjoy the beauty of your poinsettia throughout the year. At the end of March or early April, when the bracts age and begin to turn a muddy green, cut the plant back to about eight inches. The amount you cut from the top depends on the shape of the plant.
After you cut the plant back, it will look rather stark, with bare branches and bluntly cut woody stems. By the end of May, however, you should see vigorous growth as the plant develops more lush foliage. Keep the plants near a sunny window.
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