The Ascot Rainbow Spurge, scientifically known as Euphorbia x martinii ‘Ascot Rainbow’, is a gorgeous variety of spurge admired for its colorful foliage. Providing proper fertilization is key to keeping your Ascot Rainbow Spurge healthy and looking its best. This comprehensive guide will walk you through when, how, and what to feed your prized Euphorbia
Understanding the Nutrient Needs of Ascot Rainbow Spurge
Like all plants, the Ascot Rainbow Spurge requires certain essential nutrients to thrive. These nutrients include
- Nitrogen (N) – promotes lush, green foliage growth
- Phosphorus (P) – aids in root development and flower/seed production
- Potassium (K) – boosts overall plant vigor and disease resistance
- Micronutrients – such as iron, magnesium, calcium etc. support various plant functions
Additionally, this plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0-6.5. Testing your soil can help determine if amendments are needed to reach the ideal range for your Ascot Rainbow Spurge.
Choosing the Right Fertilizer
When shopping for fertilizer, look for a balanced formula with an NPK ratio around 10-10-10 or 12-12-12. Slow-release or controlled-release fertilizers are ideal, as they provide a steady feed of nutrients over an extended period.
You can also use a water-soluble fertilizer, diluting it to half or quarter strength before applying. Liquid kelp extracts are a great organic alternative that provides micronutrients.
Avoid over-fertilizing, as too much can burn roots and leaves. Carefully follow label directions for best results.
When and How Often to Fertilize
Timing your fertilizer applications strategically ensures your Ascot Rainbow Spurge gets nutrients when it needs them most:
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Early spring – Feed as new growth emerges to support establishment.
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Mid-summer – Fertilize again to sustain growth through the hottest months.
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Avoid late summer/fall – Feeding too late can spur tender new growth before winter.
Generally, fertilizing once or twice per year is sufficient. If using quick-release fertilizers, apply monthly or biweekly in smaller doses. Monitor your plant’s response and adjust as needed.
Application Methods
Proper technique is key for your Ascot Rainbow Spurge to effectively utilize the nutrients you provide. Here are some fertilizing best practices:
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Always water thoroughly before fertilizing to moisten the soil.
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Apply at the base of the plant. For granular types, sprinkle around the root zone avoiding direct contact with stems and leaves.
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Follow with more water to dissolve granules and bring nutrients to the roots.
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Re-apply after heavy rains to replenish any nutrients lost through leaching.
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Consider a foliar spray of liquid fertilizer on leaves for a quick boost.
What to Look for After Fertilizing
Within a few weeks, you should notice signs of revitalized growth and ideally more prolific and vibrant foliage variegation on your fertilized Ascot Rainbow Spurge. But also watch for:
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Leaf burn – The tips may brown from too much fertilizer.
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Few flowers – Excess nitrogen can inhibit blooming.
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Leggy growth – Too much nitrogen causes weak stems.
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Nutrient deficiencies – Yellowing leaves may indicate a lack of iron, magnesium or other nutrients.
Adjust your fertilizer regimen as needed based on your plant’s response. With a proper feeding schedule, your Ascot Rainbow Spurge will keep its stunning rainbow colors year after year.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Here are some common fertilizer-related issues and solutions for Ascot Rainbow Spurge plants:
Problem: Leaves are small and yellowing.
Solution: Plant is likely lacking nitrogen. Apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer.
Problem: Leaf tips are brown or burnt looking.
Solution: Ease up on fertilizer amounts and frequency. Flush soil to remove buildup.
Problem: Few or no flowers.
Solution: Too much nitrogen can limit blooms. Use a more balanced fertilizer.
Problem: Weak, floppy growth.
Solution: Improve light exposure. Apply less nitrogen fertilizer.
Problem: White crusty deposits on soil.
Solution: Flush soil to remove salt accumulation from excess fertilizer.
With the right balance of fertilization and care, you can maintain the eye-catching color and form that makes the Ascot Rainbow Spurge such a coveted houseplant or garden accent. Follow these best practices and enjoy the fruits of your labor!
Ascot Rainbow Spurge Care
Don’t worry about babysitting this beauty, because it can literally take care of itself. Just give it part to full sun conditions. Make sure that the soil is well-draining. It will thrive with average to less than average watering needs. Apply fertilizer or compost annually to help invigorate new shoots and blooms. Diseases and pest issues are not a problem either.
Euphorbia is a hardy perennial that thrives in zones 5 to 9. Since this plant is evergreen the leaves can withstand the cold winter. Just trim back the flower shoots in the late Summer or early Fall and come Spring this plant will be as good as new.
Your Green Thumb Support
Mon-Thur, 7 AM – 7 PM CST
Fri, 7 AM – 5 PM CST
Sat-Sun, 8 AM – 5 PM CST
Mon-Fri, 8 AM to 5 PM CST
- Partial Sun to Full Sun (At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight)
- Height 20 Inches
- Width 20 Inches
- Growing Zones 5-9
Looking for something different but you can’t put your finger on it? Never fear Ascot Rainbow Spurge is here. Also known as Euphorbia martinii, this is a low growing evergreen subshrub (20 inches in height) that looks stunning in masses. This plant has an upright bushy habit with creamy green and white variegated leaves. The top of each growing tip has a tinge of magenta pink that gives off a tropical vibe. The flowers are unique and diverse saucers that are multi-colored pink, green, and white. These flowers bloom from Spring to Summer.
Euphorbia is known to be tough in more ways than one. Steer clear of its milky sap which can cause dermatitis. Deer and rabbits don’t have an appetite for their toxic defenses. Euphorbia is heat, drought, and salt tolerant. Mixed borders close to driveways where salt runoff can be an issue is not a problem for this plant. It makes an excellent filler in containers and makes a surprising focal point in the landscape especially on a sloping hillside.
Euphorbia ‘Ascot Rainbow’ (Spurge) // Very USEFUL perennial with UNIQUE foliage and flowers
FAQ
How to care for Euphorbia ascot rainbow?
What kind of fertilizer does Euphorbia use?
Why are the leaves falling off my Euphorbia ascot rainbow?
How do you prune ascot rainbow spurge?
Do spurges ‘Ascot Rainbow’ need a lot of fertilizer?
Spurges ‘Ascot Rainbow’ doesn’t require large amounts of fertilizer for normal growth and development. In fact, very little fertilizer is required. As mentioned earlier, some species can thrive even in very poor soils, as long as those soils are well drained.
What is a ‘Ascot Rainbow’ spurge?
Never fear ‘Ascot Rainbow’ Spurge is here. Also known as Euphorbia martinii, this is a low growing evergreen subshrub (20 inches in height) that looks stunning in masses. This plant has an upright bushy habit with creamy green and white variegated leaves. The top of each growing tip has a tinge of magenta pink that gives off a tropical vibe.
Can Ascot Rainbow spurge grow in shade?
The Ascot Rainbow Spurge prefers to grow under the full sun, particularly when grown in the cooler USDA zones. For the warmer zones, it grows optimally in partial shade. However, be sure to protect the plant from the harsh rays of the afternoon sun. Moreover, this plant grows well in USDA hardiness zone 5 to 9.
How do you care for spurges ‘Ascot Rainbow’?
Spurges ‘Ascot Rainbow’ needs to be watered when the planting medium is dry for 5 cm at the surface. Those grown in indoor environments also need a sufficient amount of moisture during the resting season. To avoid excess moisture in the medium, it is best if small amounts of water are added from below. Never miss a care task again!