Grow Euphorbia

One of the largest plant families in the world, euphorbia includes approximately 300 genus and 7,500 species of plants. Often known as spurges, the most common euphorbia plants are succulents, which are water-retaining plants that easily adapt to arid climates. The euphorbia family includes plants, shrubs and trees with thick stems and various shaped leaves. The flowers vary in size and often feature brightly colored red, orange or yellow flower heads. The plants are native to tropical and subtropical areas of the Americas, Africa and Madagascar, and can be grown as perennials in temperate climates or annuals in cooler locations. Use these tips to grow euphorbia.

Steps

1. Grow euphorbia from plants, not seeds. Because euphorbia seeds have a limited shelf-life, they typically are not available in commercial markets.
   • Purchase euphorbia plants at local nurseries or online retailers during the spring and summer months. Look for plants with signs of new growth in the leaves and buds. Opt for containers that are 4 inches (10.1 cm) to 1 gallon (3.8 l) in size to accommodate the plant's root system.
   • Propagate new euphorbia plants from cuttings. With a sharp knife, cut the branching species at the point where a new branch is growing or cut solitary plants at the top of the plant, removing the plant's head. Rinse off the latex, or milky sap, with cold water and allow the cut surface to dry before planting in well-drained soil. Wear gloves when handling euphorbia cuttings.
2. Plant euphorbia in a sunny location. Euphoria plants require bright light, but not necessarily full sun all day, which can burn the roots. Look for a location that receives bright light, but is out of direct sunlight. In their native habitat, some euphorbia plants thrive in full sun, but their roots are typically kept cool under rocks or other natural coverings.
3. Allow room for growth. Place euphorbia plants in the ground at a depth compatible with their original growing containers. This will vary depending on the plant species. Situate the plants about {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}} apart (.3 m) from each other or other plants. Larger species of euphorbia may require increased spacing.
4. Grow euphorbia in loose, well-drained soil. The soil shouldn't be too dense or the roots won't be able to penetrate the soil. Well-drained soil will allow the plant to receive the necessary moisture without maintaining surplus water around the root system, which may cause root rot.
5. Water euphorbia plants regularly. During active growth, euphorbia requires weekly watering, depending on rainfall amounts. Although the plant is classified as a succulent, it will not thrive in drought conditions. Check the soil before watering; if the soil is still moist, the plant does not need additional water.
   • Mist the plant regularly with a spray bottle in the summer months. This will provide the humidity needed for sustained growth. Do not mist during cooler months.
   • Water euphorbia plants in the evening or early morning. The plant will take in more water when the temperature is cooler. High temperatures may cause the water to evaporate before the plant absorbs it.
6. Fertilize euphorbia plants regularly during the spring and summer. Choose a 5-10-10 fertilizer that is low in nitrogen, and dilute the fertilizer with water to half strength. Apply the fertilizer every 2 to 3 weeks during active growth phases.
7. Inspect euphorbia plants for disease or pests. If the foliage becomes pale in color or the plant ceases to thrive, the plant may be suffering from disease or pests.
   • Check the plant for common pests, including mealy bugs, spider mites, scaria fly and white fly. If a plant is infested, spray it with a mineral-oil based insecticide to kill off the pests.
   • Evaluate the plant for root rot. If the root system gets too wet, the plant may drop flowers, or the plant neck may turn brown and become soft. Cut off the affected parts to save the plant during the early stages of root rot. Plants suffering from late stages of root rot should be destroyed.
   • Inspect the plant for fungal diseases. Mildew, which appears as powdery white film, can compromise the health of a euphorbia plant. Mildew growth can occur if plants don't receive enough light or ventilation. Choose a fungicide marketed for roses or ornamental flowers because general purpose fungicides are not safe for use on euphorbia plants.

Tips

• Because the euphorbia family is so large, growing conditions vary between species. Most euphorbia plants thrive in warm conditions, but some need temperature fluctuations between night and day in order to survive. Before purchasing a euphorbia plant, evaluate the recommended growing conditions to determine if that particular species is well suited for your climate.

Warnings

• The latex, or milky spa, found in the stem of the euphorbia plant is a natural deterrent for herbivores. It contains terpene esters that are caustic and can irritate the skin. Always wear gloves when cutting euphorbia plant stems. Contact a physician if the latex comes in contact with any mucous membranes, such as the eyes or mouth. Keep small children and pets away from euphorbia plants.
• Before using any chemicals on euphorbia plants, read the manufacturer's safety instructions.

Things You'll Need

• Well-drained soil
• Water
• 5-10-10 fertilizer
• Mineral-oil based insecticide
• Ornamental flower fungicide
• Gloves

Sources and Citations

• http://www.euphorbia-international.org/
• http://www.plantideas.com/suc/suc6.html
• http://www.plant-biology.com/Euphorbia-Spurge.php
• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Euphorbia
• http://www.ext.nodak.edu/extnews/hortiscope/shrub/crwnthrns.htm

See also

• Water Succulents
• Grow Epiphyllum Cactus
• Propagate Succulents from Leaves
• Remove Cactus Needles
• Care for a Christmas Cactus
• Grow a Cactus
• Grow a Jade Plant
• Grow Cactus Indoors
• Plant Dragon Fruit
• Grow Kalanchoe

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