A healthy poinsettia should have deep green leaves with no signs of yellowing, browning, or wilting. The colored bracts (often mistaken for flowers) should be bright and uniform in hue, whether red, white, pink, or other varieties. Avoid plants with faded or unevenly colored bracts, as this may indicate poor light exposure or nutrient deficiencies.
Examine the plant's overall shape and stem strength. A healthy poinsettia should have multiple sturdy stems that support the bracts without drooping. The stems should not appear leggy or spindly, as this suggests insufficient light during growth. The plant should be bushy and balanced, with no gaps or uneven growth patterns.
Gently lift the plant from its pot to check the roots. Healthy roots should be white or light tan and firm to the touch. Avoid plants with dark, mushy, or overly tangled roots, as these are signs of root rot or poor drainage. The roots should fill the pot but not be excessively crowded, indicating the plant is not root-bound.
Inspect the undersides of leaves and stems for common pests like whiteflies, aphids, or spider mites. Look for tiny webs, sticky residue, or discolored spots, which may indicate infestations. Also, avoid plants with moldy soil or blackened stems, as these are symptoms of fungal or bacterial infections that can spread to other plants.
The bracts (modified leaves) should be fully developed and free from damage. Avoid plants with torn, bruised, or missing bracts, as these may not recover and can detract from the plant's appearance. The tiny yellow flowers (cyathia) at the center of the bracts should be tightly closed or just beginning to open, indicating freshness.
The soil should be slightly moist but not waterlogged or bone dry. Overly wet soil can lead to root rot, while dry soil may indicate neglect. A healthy poinsettia will have soil that feels damp to the touch but not soggy. Avoid plants with cracked or pulling-away soil, as this suggests inconsistent watering.
Poinsettias are sensitive to temperature changes. Ensure the plant has been kept in a stable environment (ideally 60–70°F or 15–21°C) and protected from drafts or extreme temperatures. Avoid plants displayed near cold doors or heat vents, as sudden temperature fluctuations can cause stress and leaf drop.
A healthy poinsettia should have abundant foliage from the base to the top of the plant. Sparse leaves or visible gaps between stems may indicate poor growing conditions or improper pruning. The leaves should be perky and free from curling or wilting, which can signal dehydration or heat stress.
The pot should be proportionate to the plant's size, with adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. A pot that is too small can restrict root growth, while one that is too large may retain excess moisture. Check that the pot is not cracked or damaged, as this can affect the plant's stability and health.
If possible, ask the retailer about the plant's care history. Poinsettias that have been recently watered, fertilized, and kept in optimal light conditions are more likely to thrive. Avoid plants that appear dusty or have been sitting in low-light areas for extended periods, as they may already be stressed.
