The pencil tree is also known as the stick plant, pencil cactus, rubber euphorbia and fire sticks.The shrub has pencil-shaped branches and small leaves.This plant can be planted as a container plant or a small hedge.The pencil tree grows in poor soils and requires little maintenance.You should be careful where you put this plant.It irritates the skin and can be toxic when eaten.These easy how-to tips will show you how to grow this easy care plant.
Step 1: Take a look at the roots.
When buying a potted plant from a garden center, it's a good idea to life the plant out of the container and look at the roots.The plant should have a firm root ball.There are no signs of rot in the white roots.There is a dense cluster of roots.The roots do not circle around the inside of the container.
Step 2: Look for healthy growth.
If you want years of enjoyment, choose the healthiest plant.There are a few things you should look for in a pencil tree.The color should be green, except on plants that have a brown trunk and look like bark.The plant needs to be free of insects.
Step 3: The container needs to be the right size.
The Pencil Tree can grow up to 1.5 m tall and is a slow growing plant.Plants between 3 inches and 2 feet tall can grow in a 10 cm deep container.Plants between 6 and 10 inches deep will do well in these containers.
Step 4: Before watering, allow the soil around the roots to dry out.
The Pencil Tree is tolerant of the weather.The Pencil Tree can be found in areas with low precipitation.The roots of this plant will rot if it gets too much water.
Step 5: The Pencil Tree will get sun most of the day.
The Pencil Tree is tolerant of light conditions.The plant will thrive in areas with partial sun.
Step 6: Poor soils are where the Pencil Tree lives.
The Pencil Tree is tolerant of all soils.Container grown Pencil Trees can be grown with a basic potting soil mix.In the landscape, the plant will grow in eroded soils and other difficult growing conditions.
Step 7: Don't worry about pests at all.
Most pests and diseases are resistant to the Pencil Tree.The pests and diseases don't like the latex in the stems.Stem and root rot can occur in wet and humid areas.
Step 8: The Pencil Trees need to be protected from the cold.
The tips of the Pencil Tree can turn red in the winter.This is normal.During periods of cold weather, the plant needs protection.Plants in the landscape can be covered with an old sheet.Place stakes around the plant so that the sheet doesn't touch it.Plants can be brought indoors or covered with a sheet.
Step 9: As the plant grows, support it.
As the trees grow, they may need some support.There is a stick near the trunk of the plant.Tie the trunk's main stem to the stick.The tie and stick should be adjusted as the plant grows.
Step 10: The Pencil Tree needs to be Prune if it gets too large.
Pruning the plant as it grows will keep it at a desired height.Gloves will protect your hands from latex.A point where the stem branches from the main branch is where to cut a stem.
Step 11: Pruning off parts will make more Pencil Trees.
The stems can be placed in the soil.The stems will begin to grow.The cut end of the stem can be planted in a small container of soil.The soil needs to be soaked.Allow the plant to dry out, but not completely.