Euphorbia, one of the largest plant families in the world, includes approximately 300 genera and 7,500 species. The most common are the so-called succulents, which retain water and adapt easily to arid climates. The euphorbia family includes plants, shrubs and trees with massive stems and leaves of different shapes. The flowers vary in size and are generally characterized by bright colors ranging from red to orange and yellow. They are plants native to the tropical and subtropical areas of the Americas, Africa and Madagascar, and can be grown as perennials in temperate climates or as annuals in colder locations. Use the following tips for growing euphorbias.
Steps
Step 1. Grow euphorbias using plants, not seeds
Since the seeds have a limited shelf life, they are generally not readily available on the market.
- Purchase euphorbia plants at a nearby nursery or from an Internet vendor during the spring and summer months. Make sure they show signs of new leaf and bud formation. Opt for containers of 10 cm in diameter for 4 liters, capable of accommodating the root system.
- Propagate new milkweed plants from cuttings. With a sharp knife, cut the branch where it grows or shorten the top of the mother plant by removing the head. Rinse off the latex, or milky sap, with cold water and allow the surface of the cutting to dry before planting in well-drained soil. Use a pair of gloves when handling the cuttings.
Step 2. Plant the milkweed in a sunny spot
These plants need strong lighting, but they don't necessarily have to stay in full sun all day, otherwise the roots risk drying out. Look for a spot where they can receive good lighting, but away from direct sunlight. In their natural habitat some euphorbia plants thrive in full sun, but typically the roots keep cool under rocks or other natural protection.
Step 3. Leave room for growth
Place the milkweed plants in the soil to a depth compatible with what they had in the previous containers they grew in. It can vary depending on the species. Place them about 30cm away from each other or other plants. Larger species may require greater distance.
Step 4. Grow euphorbias in soft, well-drained soil
The soil must not be too compact, otherwise the roots will not be able to penetrate inside. If it is well drained, the plants will be able to receive the necessary humidity, without retaining too much water around the roots, risking producing root rot.
Step 5. Water regularly
During growth, euphorbia needs water every week based on the amount of rain it receives. Even though they are succulents, they do not thrive in drought conditions. Check the soil before watering: if it is still wet, there is no need to administer more water.
- Mist the plant regularly with a spray bottle in the summer months. In this way it will have the necessary humidity to grow well over time. Avoid this during the colder months.
- Water the euphorbia in the evening or early morning. The plant absorbs more water when temperatures are cooler. Conversely, heat can evaporate the water before the plant absorbs it.
Step 6. Fertilize your milkweed plants regularly during the spring and summer
Choose a low nitrogen 5-10-10 fertilizer, and dilute it with water to halve its strength. Apply fertilizer every 2 to 3 weeks during the growing process.
Step 7. Check the plants for diseases or pests
If the foliage turns pale or the plant stops growing, it may be suffering from some disease or attacked by pests.
- See if it has been attacked by common pests, such as mealy bugs, mites, sciara fly and whitefly. In this case, spray a mineral oil-based insecticide to kill them.
- Check for root rot on the plant. If the root system gets too wet, there is a risk that the flowers will fall off or the plant's collar will turn brown and become limp. During the early stages of root rot, cut off the affected parts to save the plant. If it is at an advanced stage, it should be destroyed.
- Check for fungal diseases. Mold, which appears in the form of a white, powdery film, can compromise the health of euphorbias. It can develop if plants don't get enough light or ventilation. Choose a fungicide formulated for roses or ornamental flowers, because general-purpose ones aren't safe on milkweed plants.
Advice
Since the euphorbia family is very large, the conditions for growing them vary depending on the species. Most of these plants thrive in the heat, but some need weather variations between night and day to survive. Before buying a milkweed, consider the recommended growing conditions to find out if a particular species is suitable for the climate in which you live
Warnings
- The latex, or milky sap, found in the stem of the plant is a natural deterrent for herbivores. Contains terpene esters, caustic substances that can irritate the skin. Always wear gloves when trimming the stems of milkweed plants. Contact a doctor if latex comes into contact with mucous membranes, such as eyes or mouth. Keep small children and pets away from these plants.
- Before using chemicals on milkweed plants, read the safety instructions marked on the product.
