How to care for a poinsettia

The poinsettia is the plant of the holidays, and it is easier to keep than its reputation suggests. Most of the trouble comes from cold and from too much water.

Are the red parts flowers?

No. The colored parts are bracts, leaves that change color in the short days of fall. The real flowers are the tiny yellow buds in the center. A plant whose buds are still closed stays colorful longer.

How much light does it need?

Bright, indirect light for at least six hours a day, such as near a sunny window, without the leaves touching the cold glass.

What temperature does it like?

Between 60°F and 70°F during the day, and a little cooler at night. Keep it away from cold drafts, doors to the outside, heaters and fireplaces. Below about 50°F the leaves are damaged, so cover it well when you carry it home in winter.

How often should you water it?

When the top of the soil feels dry. Water until it drains, then empty the saucer. If the pot came in a foil sleeve, take it off or poke holes in the bottom, because standing water rots the roots.

Why are the leaves turning yellow or falling off?

Usually from a cold draft, too much water or too little light. A few lower leaves dropping is normal; many leaves dropping at once usually means the plant got chilled.

How do you make a poinsettia turn red again?

Keep it growing as a houseplant through the summer. From early October, give it 14 hours of complete darkness every night, in a closet or under a box, and bright light during the day. After eight to ten weeks the bracts start to color, usually in time for December.

Is a poinsettia poisonous to pets?

Only mildly. The ASPCA lists poinsettias as toxic to cats and dogs, but the sap usually causes no more than mild irritation of the mouth and stomach. It is still best kept out of reach. See which holiday plants are safe for pets.