Holiday-red poinsettias only bloom in darkness

When selecting a poinsettia, pick a plant with foliage that is dark green right down to the soil line. Choose one with completely colored bracts, not ones with green edges. Avoid plants with overly wet soil, yellow or fallen leaves, or if it appears wilted.

To help maintain your poinsettia's beauty for the length of the season, avoid placing your plant in direct sunlight but keep it in a location where it will get at least six hours of daylight. Keep it away from cold windows or drafts, as well as warmth from registers or other heat sources. The ideal daytime temperature is 60 to 70 degrees, with nighttime temperatures around 55 degrees.

After the plant has finished blooming, fertilize monthly. In February or March, cut back the old stems to a four- to sixinch height. In late spring to early summer, repot and place in a sunny window. Once all danger of frost has passed and the nighttime temperatures stay above 60 degrees, the plant can be moved outside and placed in a shady spot.

Bring plant indoors once nighttime temps reach 55 to 60 degrees. Check for disease and pests. Place plant in a south-facing window. From September through Dec. 15, prevent it from getting light at night so that flowers will be produced.

Rockford Register Star