Poinsettia care is not that difficult but there are a few guidelines to which you should adhere in order to make sure your plant remains healthy and colorful during the holiday season. The amount of light that your plant receives is very important. A typical plant will require around fourteen hours of complete darkness to encourage the budding process of the plant. This will allow the leaves to reach their truest color. Many people believe that the plant has flowers but actually it is the brilliant red leaves that make the plant so appealing to the eye.

The right amount of water is also critical to the health and well being of your poinsettia plant. Often people make the mistake of over watering. Proper plant care requires watering your plant once or twice a week making sure the top one inch of soil remains moist. To much water and the roots may began to rot. Poinsettia plants do not like cold temperatures so if possible place your plant in a south window where your plant can soak up the afternoon sun. Fertilize your plant twice a month and you should have a plant that you can enjoy though out the holiday season.

If you are so inclined and with a little effort you can enjoy your plant year round. When spring time rolls around and the temperatures began to climb (into the fifties and sixties) you can transplant the poinsettia plant outside. Plant in an area where there will be some shade each day. Make sure to occasionally water your plant. Trim the plant back so that there are only one or two buds per stem and you will have a summer poinsettia plant you can enjoy for years to come.

The poinsettia plant was originally introduced to the United States from the country of Mexico in the early 1800's. The story is told of the first United States Ambassador to Mexico Joel Roberts Poinsett walking through the Mexican countryside and coming across a poinsettia plant growing next to the road. The ambassador was so enthralled with the beauty of the plant that he brought it back to the United States upon his return. In addition to introducing the poinsettia plant to the United States Ambassador Poinsett was also responsible for the creation of the Smithsonian Institution.

Poinsettias can liven up your holiday season by providing warmth and vibrant colors to you home and surroundings. With attention and proper poinsettia care you can have a plant that will brighten your life for many years to come.