Poinsettia Care 101: How to Keep Yours Looking Beautiful All Season
November 5, 2026 | News
Nothing says the holidays quite like a beautiful poinsettia! With their vibrant red, pink, and creamy white leaves, these festive favorites are an easy way to bring a little Christmas cheer into your home.
But have you ever brought home a gorgeous poinsettia, only to watch it start dropping leaves a week later? You’re not alone!
The good news? Poinsettias are easier to care for than you might think. A few simple tricks can keep yours looking beautiful throughout the holiday season and even beyond.
1. Find the Perfect Spot
Poinsettias love bright, indirect sunlight. Place yours near a sunny window where it can enjoy plenty of natural light without being pressed against cold glass.
Keep it away from drafty doors, heating vents, and fireplaces. Sudden temperature changes can cause leaves to drop, especially during Boise’s chilly winter months.
FarWest Tip: Poinsettias are happiest in temperatures between 65-75°F during the day.
2. Don’t Love It to Death With Water
One of the biggest mistakes people make with poinsettias? Overwatering!
Check the soil before reaching for your watering can. When the top inch feels dry, give your plant a thorough drink and allow the excess water to drain.
If your poinsettia comes wrapped in decorative foil, make sure water isn’t collecting at the bottom. Nobody likes soggy feet, especially poinsettias!
3. Keep Them Cozy
Poinsettias are tropical plants, which means freezing temperatures are definitely not their thing.
Even a short trip from the garden center to your car during a cold Boise day can damage the leaves if the plant isn’t protected.
When bringing your poinsettia home, wrap it in a protective sleeve or paper and avoid leaving it in a cold vehicle.
4. Don’t Panic Over a Few Falling Leaves
Noticed a few leaves dropping? Your poinsettia might just be reacting to a change in its environment.
Cold drafts, inconsistent watering, and sudden temperature changes are common reasons for leaf drop.
Check the soil moisture, move your plant away from drafts, and give it a little time to adjust.
5. Can You Keep Your Poinsettia After Christmas?
Despite their reputation as temporary holiday decorations, poinsettias can live for years with proper care.
Continue providing bright light and consistent watering after the holidays. As spring approaches, you can begin fertilizing during active growth.
Getting your poinsettia to turn red again next Christmas takes a little more effort, including several weeks of uninterrupted darkness each night in the fall, but it can be a fun project for plant lovers!
Bring a Little Holiday Cheer Home From FarWest!
Whether you’re decorating your home, looking for a hostess gift, or adding a festive touch to your office, poinsettias are a holiday classic.
Stop by FarWest Landscape & Garden Center in Boise to shop our seasonal plants and find a little holiday inspiration. Our team is always happy to help you keep your plants looking their best!
Happy holidays and happy planting!