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Poinsettia plants are often seen around the holidays, but what should we look for when picking one out? Marion County Master Gardener Coordinator Karen Ackley recommends choosing a well shaped plant with dark green foliage and well colored leaves. She says the flowers should be shedding little to no pollen and avoid poinsettias with wilted foliage, broken stems or few leaves.

Ackley says when given good care the plants should remain attractive for several weeks and it is possible to keep the plant in good condition until March, maintain it over the summer and reflower it for another holiday season. She says while this process sounds overwhelming it can be easy and satisfying to keep and rebloom the same plant year after year.