Euonymus

Euonymus is quite tolerant of dry conditions, and when grown indoors, it usually only needs to be watered every 1-2 weeks. To check if the soil is dry, stick your finger in the soil up to the first knuckle. If it feels dry, give your Euonymus a thorough watering until some of the water starts to run out of the bottom of the pot. After that, water only as needed to keep the soil from drying out completely.

Euonymus prefers bright, indirect sunlight for the best foliage. Direct sunlight will scorch the leaves, and too much shade will cause the foliage to become pale and limp. Furthermore, Euonymus generally cannot tolerate prolonged periods of temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

Euonymus, when grown indoors, prefers warm temperatures in the range of 65-75°F (18-24°C). During the winter will accept cool temperatures down to 50°F (10°C), but it is essential that during the colder months, hot and cold drafts are best avoided.

Euonymus is not a particularly fussy houseplant when it comes to humidity levels; it will tolerate moderate humidity or dry air. If the air feels dry to you, increase humidity levels with a humidifier or with a tray of pebbles and water.

A standard potting mix will work perfectly for Euonymus, and you can supplement it with a few handful of grit for better drainage. It should also be noted that Euonymus prefers slightly alkaline soil, so you may want to mix in some crushed eggshells or diluted lime tea to raise the pH.

Euonymus can be fertilized twice each year, once during the early spring and once during the latter half of summer. A balanced fertilizer should be used, as Euonymus does not need extra nitrogen, phosphorus, or potassium. A type of liquid fertilizer that contains trace minerals, such as seaweed extract, is best.

Common pests that often affect Euonymus are aphids, scales and mealybugs. To treat these pests, the most effective method is to prune off infested leaves or branches, and to then use a suitable insecticide product. Alternatively, a home-made insecticidal soap or an organic horticultural oil can be used as an effective (and more natural) treatment.

Euonymus usually only needs to be repotted every 2-3 years. Wait until late winter or early spring and check to see if the roots have become tangled or overcrowded; if so, it’s time for a new pot and some fresh soil.

If desired, Euonymus can be lightly pruned at any time of the year to control its size or to shape the appearance of the plant. When doing so, it is best to use sharp pruning scissors and to only remove a few inches worth of material at once; this way, the plant won't be overly shocked.

A thin layer of mulch around the base of your Euonymus will help to keep the soil moist and will help to suppress weeds.

Euonymus can be relatively easy to propagate from both seeds and cuttings. To propagate from seeds, you’ll need to mimic winter stratification conditions and sow the seeds in a deep pot of soil during the early spring. To propagate from cuttings, choose a healthy stem and place it in water or in some moist soil. With some patience, the stem should take root in a few weeks.

If necessary, Euonymus can be supported with a stake or a trellis; however, it shouldn't be too necessary, as the branches tend to be quite stiff and woody.

Euonymus does not typically require a rest period, and it will remain evergreen year-round. However, if you notice that the plant is looking a bit weak, it may be a good idea to provide it with a few weeks of complete rest.

Euonymus is generally not toxic to cats and dogs, although it may cause minor stomach upset if ingested.