The poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) is a plant species from Mexico and Central America, recognized globally as a symbol of the holiday season. Its striking colored leaves, called bracts, give the plant its festive appearance. Many believe this plant is difficult to maintain after the holidays. However, with consistent care, a poinsettia can thrive as a perennial houseplant and be encouraged to re-color in subsequent years.
Creating the Ideal Indoor Environment
The poinsettia is a tropical plant, and its indoor environment must reflect its native habitat to ensure survival after purchase. It flourishes best when placed in a location that receives six to eight hours of bright, indirect sunlight daily. A south, east, or west-facing window is often suitable, but shield the plant from direct, intense rays which can scorch the leaves and fade the bracts.
Maintaining a stable temperature is important for preserving the leaves and vibrant bracts. The ideal range is 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, dipping to 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit at night. Avoid placing the plant near drafts, whether hot or cold, such as those from open doors, vents, or fireplaces. Sudden temperature fluctuations commonly cause premature leaf and bract drop.
Watering and Feeding Schedules
The most common mistake in poinsettia care is overwatering, which quickly leads to root rot. Water the plant only when the surface of the soil feels dry to the touch. Saturate the soil thoroughly until water drains from the bottom, then immediately discard any excess water collected in the saucer.
The plant must never sit in standing water, as this deprives the roots of oxygen and causes decay. While actively displaying colored bracts during the holiday season, it does not require fertilization. Most commercially sold poinsettias contain sufficient nutrients from the greenhouse growing process. A regular feeding schedule should begin only after the blooming period ends, typically starting in the spring once new growth appears. At this point, apply a balanced houseplant fertilizer every three to four weeks.
Maintaining the Plant Year-Round (Post-Holiday Care)
Once the colorful bracts begin to fade and drop, usually around March or April, the plant enters a period of rest and requires pruning. Cut the stems back to four to six inches above the soil line, ensuring a few leaves remain on each stem. This encourages new, bushier growth.
If the plant is root-bound or the soil quality is poor, repotting should be done in the spring using a well-draining potting mix. The new container should only be slightly larger than the old one, perhaps one size up. Once new growth emerges, maintain the regular watering and fertilizing schedule.
When the danger of frost has passed and outdoor nighttime temperatures consistently remain above 50 degrees Fahrenheit, the plant can be moved outside for the summer. Place it in a partially shaded area and gradually introduce it to more sunlight over a week or two to prevent leaf burn. To promote a dense, attractive shape, pinch back the tips of new stems once or twice between late June and mid-August, which encourages side branching. Move the plant back indoors to a sunny window before temperatures drop below 55 degrees Fahrenheit in early fall.
The Re-blooming Darkness Cycle
To trigger the re-coloration of the bracts for the next holiday season, the poinsettia must undergo a specific photoperiodism cycle. This process, which mimics the shortening days of its native habitat, must begin around October 1st.
The plant requires a strict schedule of 14 continuous hours of complete darkness every night. Achieve this by placing the plant in a light-proof closet or covering it entirely with a cardboard box or dark cloth between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Even a brief flash of artificial light, such as a streetlight or room light, will disrupt the hormone production necessary for color change.
During the day, the poinsettia must receive eight to ten hours of bright light, preferably in a sunny window, before being returned to the dark. Maintain this light-and-dark treatment daily for eight to ten weeks, or until the new bracts show a definite color change. Once the color is fully established, usually by Thanksgiving, the darkness cycle can be stopped, and the plant can be displayed.