Would you like to know how to keep your poinsettia alive all year? Poinsettias are one of the most iconic holiday plants, filling homes with festive red, white, and pink bracts during the winter season. But did you know that with the right care, your poinsettia can stay healthy and vibrant long after the holidays? Many Atlanta plant lovers enjoy keeping their poinsettias year-round, allowing them to rebloom for the next holiday season.
If you want to keep yours thriving, these ten simple steps will help you maintain a healthy poinsettia from January to December.
1. Place Your Poinsettia in Bright, Indirect Light
Poinsettias need plenty of natural light, but they should never sit in harsh, direct sunlight. Place your plant near a bright window where it gets at least 6 hours of indirect light. Low light will cause the leaves to fade or drop.
2. Keep the Temperature Comfortable
Poinsettias love the same temperatures most Atlanta homes stay at: 65–75°F during the day. Avoid cold drafts, fireplaces, heaters, or frequently opened exterior doors. Sudden temperature shifts stress the plant.
3. Water Only When the Top Soil Is Dry
Overwatering is the fastest way to kill a poinsettia. Water thoroughly only when the top inch of soil feels dry. Make sure the pot drains well and never let the plant sit in standing water. If you’re gifting holiday plants and want florist-prepped options with ideal containers, browse the seasonal arrangements in the Northpark Florist Shop.
4. Avoid Overwatering by Removing the Foil
The decorative foil around poinsettias traps water. If you keep the foil, poke drainage holes. Otherwise, remove it completely to help prevent root rot.
5. Keep Humidity Moderate
Atlanta homes can get dry in winter, especially with heating running. If the air feels dry, lightly mist around the plant (not directly on the leaves) or place a humidity tray nearby to keep levels steady.
6. Fertilize After the Holidays
Once the festive season passes and the plant stops producing colorful bracts, begin fertilizing every 2–4 weeks with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer. Do not fertilize while the plant is still blooming.
7. Prune Your Poinsettia in Early Spring
Pruning encourages new growth. Around March or April, cut the plant back to 4–6 inches. This feels dramatic, but it helps your poinsettia stay compact and full. For inspiration on seasonal blooms and arrangements, see our Northpark Florist Blog.
8. Move the Plant Outdoors in Late Spring
Once nighttime temperatures consistently stay above 55°F, move your poinsettia outdoors to a shaded patio or porch. Avoid direct sunlight until it acclimates. Outdoor fresh air promotes stronger stems and vibrant leaves.
9. Encourage Reblooming in Fall with a Light-Control Routine
To turn green leaves into red holiday bracts again, poinsettias need controlled darkness. Starting in late September to early October, give the plant:
- 14 hours of complete darkness every night (place it in a dark closet or cover with a box)
- 10 hours of daylight during the day
Repeat this cycle daily for 8–10 weeks. This triggers the color change poinsettias are famous for.
10. Return the Plant Indoors Before Temperatures Drop
Before Atlanta hits cooler nights in late fall, bring your poinsettia back inside. Place it somewhere warm, bright, and away from drafts. Continue normal watering and enjoy the new bracts as they develop.
When to Consider a Fresh New Arrangement
Not all poinsettias survive a full year, especially older plants or those that suffered from overwatering during the holidays. If you need a seasonal refresh, explore custom options through the custom arrangement page. Or browse beautiful winter and holiday selections at the Northpark Florist shop.
Have Questions?
Our team is always here to help you care for seasonal blooms. Reach out anytime through the contact us page for advice, care tips, or custom plant recommendations.
FAQs About Caring for Poinsettias
How long do poinsettias normally live?
With proper care, poinsettias can live for several years and rebloom annually.
Why are my poinsettia leaves falling off?
Stress from cold drafts, low light, or overwatering can cause leaf drop.
Can poinsettias grow outdoors in Atlanta year-round?
They can grow outdoors in warm months but must come inside before nighttime temperatures drop below 55°F.
Do poinsettias need special soil?
Well-draining potting mix is ideal to prevent root rot.
Can I buy new poinsettia arrangements in Atlanta?
Yes. Visit the Northpark Florist Shop for seasonal selections.
