How to Care for the Poinsettia Plant
- 1). Place a poinsettia in a room in which the temperature is between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and move it to an area that is cooler at night, the Ohio State University Extension website recommends. Poinsettias prefer indirect sunlight, so place it next to a window facing north if possible, being careful to place leaves near the window pane. Make sure the room has no drafts, which can cause leaves to drop.
- 2). Water when the soil is dry to the touch. Water until the water runs out of the drainage holes into the saucer, the OSU Extension website suggests. Empty the saucer to prevent root damage. If leaves are wilting, water immediately to prevent leaves from falling.
- 3). Fertilize poinsettias six to eight weeks after the holidays with half-strength houseplant fertilizer to maintain the green foliage and promote new growth, the University of Minnesota Extension website advises. Apply fertilizer again in six to eight weeks.
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