Spurge Care

Growing Spurge

There are thousands of species in the Euphorbia or Spurge family. They have an infinite range of colors, textures, and growth habits that put on a wonderful display in any garden. Foliage colors range from chartreuse, blue, green, and shades of rusty reds to variegated options. They produce a spring or summer bloom and fantastic fall color. They are deer resistant, low fuss, and often evergreen, and make an attractive, easy-to-care-for addition to your garden.  

Planting Spurge

Plant Spurge in full sun locations, which will bring out the full range of color. Spurge can tolerate partial sun but flowering and foliage color may not be as vibrant. Spurge thrives in well-draining lean soils; they don’t like to be sitting in wet soil, which can cause root rot. Most varieties of spurge spread by rhizomes, creating a dense mat, which is helpful when used to choke out weeds. You can manage their spread simply by digging up the runners if you don’t want them mingling with other garden plants. 

Watering Spurge

Water newly planted Spurge every few days once you notice the top layer of soil is dry. Once Spurge matures, plants can be watered less frequently. Most varieties prefer soil moisture on the drier side and are fairly drought tolerant.

Fertilizing Spurge

During the growing season, fertilize Spurge with a diluted, well-balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10, or select a balanced fertilizer that contains important trace elements. Overfertilization of slower-growing varieties can harm the plant more than not fertilizing. Carefully follow package instructions. 

Pruning Spurge

There are generally two groups of spurge: caulescent and acaulescent. Caulescent types have stems above ground all year, and acaulescent types have only seasonal stems above ground. Do not cut caulescent varieties to the ground because they will not flower the following spring. Acaulescent types go dormant in fall and can be cut back to a few inches from the soil level. Wear gloves when pruning Spurge, as they have a milky sap that comes out of the stem when cut, and it can cause irritation to your skin. Some varieties of Spurge spread their seeds prolifically, so you may want to deadhead them to control eventual spread. 

Caring For Spurge in Pots

When planting Spurge in containers, select a pot with ample drainage holes, and use a cactus mix for best results. Spurge is prone to root rot if it sits in soggy soil. Place the potted plant in a sunny location. They are relatively low maintenance and easy to care for. Potted plants should be pruned in the same way as plants growing in the landscape. 

Winter Care for Spurge

Acaulescent varieties of Spurge can be cut close to the ground in late autumn. Caulescent varieties only need to be pruned in spring if stems show signs of winter damage.