- Select a healthy plant. Choose a plant with dark green foliage down to the soil line. Choose bracts that are completely colored. Do not choose plants that are drooping, wilting, or with fallen or yellowed leaves. Do not purchase plants that have been displayed too close together, as crowding can cause premature bract loss.

- Choose the freshest flowers. Check the poinsettia’s maturity. Check the true flowers, which are located at the base of the colored bracts. Look for flowers that are green or red-tipped and fresh-looking.

- Protect it from exposure. When bringing your poinsettia home from the store, protect it from chilling winds and temperatures below 50°F. A large plastic shopping bag should provide enough protection.

- Moderate the temperature. Keep it in a spot where it gets at least six hours of indirect sunlight a day. To prolong color, temperatures should be about 60ºF at night and 72ºF during the day. Keep it away from hot or cold drafts (doors, drafty windows, heating vents, etc.).

- Water accordingly. Water when the potting mix feels dry to the touch.

- Feed it. Fertilize after it finishes blooming (once the colorful bracts begin to fade).

- Cut it back. If you plan to keep your poinsettia as a houseplant, cut it back to the green leaves once the holidays are done. New growth will sprout. Next year, you’ll have a much larger plant to bloom for the holidays.