Tiger thorn plum cultivation methods and precautions

Euphorbia milii, beloved for its colorful and delicate flowers, has become a popular flower in recent years. Its branches are covered with tiny thorns, so you need to be careful when caring for it to avoid puncture wounds. Euphorbia milii has a very long lifespan, with one plant being able to survive for twenty to thirty years. It grows slowly, so it does not require frequent pruning, only the removal of diseased and dead branches. It is vigorous, extremely drought-tolerant and sun-tolerant, making it an ideal low-maintenance flower. Let’s learn about the cultivation methods and precautions of Euphorbia milii below.

1. Maintain a suitable temperature difference

Euphorbia milii originates from the warm Madagascar. It is not cold-resistant and requires a certain temperature difference between day and night to accumulate energy. The most suitable growth temperature is 18 to 25 degrees, about 22 degrees during the day and about 15 degrees at night. This temperature difference helps it bloom all year round.

2. Plenty of sunlight

Euphorbia milii loves sunlight, is not shade-tolerant, and can adapt to heat and strong light. It should receive sufficient sunlight throughout the year to promote flowering. If there is not enough light in your home, it may be difficult for Euphorbia milii to bloom.

3. Water appropriately

Euphorbia milii can grow even in drought conditions and is more suited to dry soils. Soil that is too wet or waterlogged can easily lead to root rot and affect flowering. The principle of watering is "better dry than wet" to avoid too fast growth of branches and leaves, excessive consumption of nutrients, and inhibition of flower bud differentiation.

4. Reasonable fertilization

The amount of flowering is greatly affected by nutrients, and it is difficult to continue flowering if nutrients are insufficient. When applying fertilizer, it is not advisable to apply nitrogen fertilizer exclusively, so as to avoid only growing leaves without flowers. Phosphorus and potassium fertilizers should be used during the flowering period, such as potassium dihydrogen phosphate and Huaduoduo No. 2 and other quick-acting flowering fertilizers. Applying them two to three times continuously can promote the prosperity and durability of flowers, which are both charming and beautiful.

In short, the flowering period of Euphorbia milii is very long. The natural flowering period is mainly in winter and spring, but experienced gardeners can make it bloom all year round. If you want to achieve flowering all year round, you need to follow the principles of daily maintenance.