Wintercreeper Euonymus fortunei 'Emerald 'n' Gold' (v)

Water

Wintercreeper should be watered deeply once a week during its growing season, particularly if the weather has been dry. It's best to water in the morning so that any water on the foliage can evaporate as the day warms up. One to two gallons per plant per watering should suffice, depending on the size of the plant and the environmental conditions. During the winter, reduce watering frequency as the plant's growth slows down and it requires less water. Make sure the soil is well-drained as Wintercreeper does not like to sit in waterlogged soil, which can cause root rot.

Light

Wintercreeper thrives best in a spot that receives full sun to partial shade. However, it can still grow in full shade, although its growth might be slower and its foliage color less vibrant. Ideally, place it where it can receive morning sunlight and dappled shade in the afternoon to protect it from intense heat, which it can tolerate but may not be ideal for the richest foliage color.

Temperature

Wintercreeper is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, generally surviving in temperatures as low as -20 to -30 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the ideal temperature conditions for its growth and vibrant coloration usually fall between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure to avoid planting it in areas prone to harsh wind or frost pockets, which can damage the plant in winter.

Pruning

Pruning Wintercreeper is generally done to maintain shape, manage its size, or remove any damaged or diseased foliage. The best time to prune is in the late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Trim it as needed to keep the desired form or to prevent it from overgrowing its space. Light pruning can also be done during the growing season if you notice any irregular growth patterns or areas that need correction.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Wintercreeper requires well-draining soil enriched with organic matter and a pH that is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. A good mix might contain garden soil, compost, and perlite or pine bark to ensure proper drainage and fertility.

Repotting

Wintercreeper is usually a vigorous plant that doesn't require frequent repotting. Repot every 2-3 years in spring to encourage growth and refresh the soil, or when you notice the roots are outgrowing the current container.

Humidity & Misting

Wintercreeper is tolerant of a range of humidity levels but does best in moderate humidity. It generally thrives in the typical ambient humidity found outdoors and can adapt to indoor conditions.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright indirect light and well-draining soil mix.

• Outdoor

  Plant in well-drained soil, partial to full sun exposure.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Wintercreeper 'Emerald 'n' Gold' starts its life as a seed, which when conditions are favorable, germinates and begins to grow roots and shoots. It develops into a young plant with characteristically variegated leaves of green and gold, which are evergreen and continue to photosynthesize year-round. As it matures, it forms a low-growing shrub with a creeping habit, spreading both horizontally and vertically if allowed to climb. It reaches reproductive maturity and produces inconspicuous, small greenish-yellow flowers, typically in early summer. If the flowers are pollinated, they will give rise to a small, pink to red fruit containing seeds, which, if dispersed, can lead to new plantings. Throughout its life, Euonymus fortunei 'Emerald 'n' Gold' can be pruned to maintain desired shape and size, and it may live for many years with proper care.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• Propogation: The Euonymus fortunei 'Emerald 'n' Gold', commonly known as Wintercreeper, is typically propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. This process is most successful when carried out during the late summer months. To propagate, healthy semi-hardwood stems are selected and cut into lengths of 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm). The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is often treated with a rooting hormone to stimulate root development. The prepared cutting is then planted in a pot containing a mix of peat and perlite, ensuring that the leaf nodes where roots will form are buried. The cutting needs to be kept moist and in a warm environment with indirect sunlight until roots have developed, which usually takes a few weeks. Once the cutting has established a robust root system, it can be transplanted into the garden or a more permanent container.