Caring for Japanese Euonymus

Watering
Evergreen euonymous shrubs do not require supplemental watering except when they're first planted, in time of drought, and in late fall before the ground freezes for the winter. During periods of drought, give each shrub 1 gallon of water twice a week. Run a drip irrigation system or sprinkler for 20 minutes twice a week. If water restrictions are in force, water by hand. Mulch the shrubs to help the soil retain moisture. (See below). For more information see the file About Watering Equipment

Fertilizing
Feed euonymus once a year in the fall. Sprinkle a handful or two of general purpose granular fertilizer on the soil around each shrub no closer than 2 inches to the trunk and out to and beyond the tips of the branches, the drip line.
For more information see file About Fertilizers.

Mulching
Spread a 2 to 4 inch layer of some attractive organic material on the soil at the base of the winged euonymus shrubs to protect their roots. Wood chips, chopped leaves, or shredded bark by themselves or over landscape fabric will discourage weeds and help retain moisture in the soil. A good mulch can reduce the rate of soil moisture loss by as much as 50 percent, depending on the material used.
For more information see file on Using Mulch.

Pruning/Grooming
Euonymus plants need little pruning except to control their spread and shape. In early spring shear them to the shape you want when necessary. Clipping the tips of individual branches selectively creates a more natural looking, informal hedge. Cut back older plants radically to rejuvenate them.
For more information see files on Pruning Shrubsand Choosing Pruning Tools.

Winter Protection
Protect euonymus shrubs from winter wind and ice and heavy, wet snow with burlap, evergreen boughs, or other screens. Make sure there is adequate air circulation around the shrubs. Where heavy snow and ice are common, tie branches loosely together or build small A-frames over each plant.
For more information see file on Winter Protection For Plants.

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