Euonymus are very useful shrubs and if you already have some in your garden, you may well wish to propagate your existing plants to obtain more.
The best means of propagation for the types most commonly grown in the UK is by means of semi-hardwood cuttings.
Euonymus, also known as spindle trees, are popular ornamental shrubs known for their colorful and variegated foliage. Propagating euonymus by rooting cuttings in water is an easy and gratifying way to multiply these beautiful plants for your garden.
Why Root Euonymus Cuttings in Water?
Rooting cuttings in water has several advantages over other propagation methods
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It allows you to easily monitor root growth, Watching those tiny white roots emerge is exciting!
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Water provides a gentle, humid environment that encourages cuttings to form roots quickly.
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It eliminates the risk of overwatering cuttings, which can cause rotting in overly wet soil.
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Rooted cuttings can be transplanted into soil with minimal disruption to the new root system.
Step-by-Step Guide to Rooting Euonymus Cuttings in Water
Rooting euonymus in water is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps for success:
Choose a Healthy Cutting
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Select a vigorous, healthy euonymus shrub to take your cutting from. Avoid plants that are stressed or diseased.
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Look for semi-hardwood cuttings from new growth, ideally 4-6 inches long.
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Use sharp, clean pruners or scissors to carefully cut just below a leaf node.
Prepare the Cutting
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Strip off the soft growth and bottom leaves so 2-3 leaves remain on top.
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Optional: Dip the trimmed end in rooting hormone to spur quicker root formation.
Provide the Right Environment
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Place the cutting in a narrow jar or glass with room temperature water.
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Keep the water level topped up so the cut end stays submerged.
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Position the jar in bright, indirect light away from direct sun.
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Maintain a temperature around 65-75°F for optimal rooting.
Change the Water Regularly
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Refresh the water every 2-3 days to prevent bacteria buildup.
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Use clean scissors to trim any rotted stem tissue if needed.
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Monitor water pH/minerals with test strips for best results.
Watch for Root Growth
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Check daily for the first signs of white roots emerging after 2-4 weeks.
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Once roots are 1-2 inches long, the cutting is ready to pot up in soil!
Tips for Maximizing Success Rooting Euonymus Cuttings
Follow these tips to ensure your euonymus cuttings root quickly and successfully:
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Take cuttings first thing in the morning for highest water content.
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Use rainwater or distilled water to prevent buildup of minerals.
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Add a pinch of cinnamon to inhibit bacteria growth.
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Mist leaves occasionally with water to increase humidity.
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Avoid direct contact between leaves and water to prevent disease.
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Remove flower buds which can divert energy from root production.
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Be patient! Some cuttings are slower to root than others.
Troubleshooting Issues with Euonymus Cuttings
Problem | Potential Cause | Solution
Growing From Seed
In November, wait until the seed capsules on an existing spindle break open to reveal the orange seeds within.
Take the orange seeds from their capsules, discard any that are damaged, and place the ones that look good into a bag filled with damp vermiculite or sharp sand.
Leave the bag slightly open to allow air inside.
Keep them warm at around 15°C for 10 weeks, making sure that they remain slightly moist but not wet.
Next, place them in the fridge for up to 16 weeks.
Check them regularly and when you see the first few seeds sprout, take the others and sow them right away.
Sow the seeds into pots filled with good quality, peat-free, seed-starting compost and grow them on, potting up as required, for another year or two before planting your new spindles out into their final growing positions.
Propagating Emerald Gaiety Euonymus in water
FAQ
Is it better to root cuttings in water or soil?
How long do propagated cuttings take to root in water?
Rooting will generally occur in 3-4 weeks but some plants will take longer. When the roots are 1-2 inches long or longer the cutting is ready to be potted up. This plant has heavy rooting and is ready to be moved to a pot with potting soil.