A little extra care can keep your poinsettia beautiful for months. Location is the first consideration. Place it near a bright indirect light source.
If the pot is wrapped in decorative foil, punch holes in the bottom so the plant's roots will not be standing in water. Place the plant in a saucer to collect extra water.
When watering, always use water that is room temperature so you don't chill the roots. Slowly add water to the pot until it drains out the bottom. Discard the excess water.
To determine the water needs of the plant, check the pot every day until you can determine just how much water it is using. Water only when the top quarter-inch of the soil is dry.
When the water needs of the plant are determined, it can be watered every two or three days. Too much water will make the leaves turn yellow and drop. Not enough water will cause the plant to wilt and drop its leaves.
Fertilize your poinsettia once a month with water-soluble fertilizer according to manufacturer's instructions.