Previously, we discussed how you can care for your poinsettias during the Christmas season.  Attempting to grow a poinsettia as a perennial houseplant can be quite a challenge, but for those adventurous enough to attempt it, it can be a fun challenge.  The easiest way to know when to do specific care tasks is to do them on holidays throughout the year.  Here is what needs to be done:

NEW YEAR'S DAY

Fertilize with an all-purpose houseplant fertilizer at recommended rates. Continue to provide adequate light and water for prolonged bloom for several weeks.

VALENTINE'S DAY

Check your plant for signs of insects such as white fly and treat if needed. If your plant has become long and leggy, cut back to about five inches tall.

ST. PATRICK'S DAY

Remove faded and dried parts of the plant. Add more soil, preferably a commercially available sterile soil mix. Keep the plant in a very bright interior location.

MEMORIAL DAY

Trim off two to three inches of branches to promote side branching. Repot to a larger container using a sterile growing mix.

FATHER'S DAY

Move the plant outside for the summer; place in indirect light.

FOURTH OF JULY

Trim the plant again. Move it into full sun. Continue to water and fertilize but increase the amount to accelerate growth.

LABOR DAY

Move indoors to a spot that gets at least six hours of direct light daily, preferably more. As new growth begins, reduce the amount of fertilizer.

AUTUMNAL EQUINOX

Starting on or near Sept. 21, give the plant 13 hours of uninterrupted darkness (put the plant in a closet, basement, or under a box) and 11 hours of bright light each day. Maintain night temperatures in the low 60 degree F range. Continue to water and fertilize. Rotate the plant daily to give all sides even light.

THANKSGIVING

Discontinue the short day/long night treatment. Put the plant in a sunny area that gets at least six hours of direct light. Reduce water and fertilizer.

CHRISTMAS

Enjoy your "new" poinsettia. Start the cycle all over again.