How to Plant a Crown of Thorns Outside in Central Florida

Gardeners in Central Florida grow plants outdoors that gardeners in colder climates can grow only in containers. Crown of thorns (Euphorbia milii), for example, is a plant native to tropical Madagascar and well-suited for U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 9 through 11. It performs well in gardens throughout Central Florida -- which is located in USDA plant hardiness zone 9 -- and is best planted in fall and spring when temperatures are at their mildest. Be careful when handling this plant, because as the name implies, it's a thorny one.

Well-draining medium
Spade
Garden gloves
Garden hose

Instructions

- 1
  Mix 4 to 6 inches of a well-draining medium, such as compost, peat moss, coir, crushed rock or coarse sand -- or a combination of them -- into the top 12 inches of soil. Crown of thorns does not tolerate soggy soil conditions, so good drainage is a must. Perform this task in an area that receives direct sunlight at least six hours a day for the best flowering.
- 2
  Dig a hole in the newly cultivated site that is as deep as the crown of thorns' nursery container and two times as wide. Plan to grow multiple plants 2 feet apart.
- 3
  Wear thick garden gloves and remove the crown of thorns from its container by tilting the plant on its side and gently tugging on the base. This task is easiest if the soil is slightly moist.
- 4
  Set the crown of thorns in the center of the hole and push back the soil and tamp it lightly to fill in the hole.
- 5
  Water the newly planted crown of thorns with 1 inch of water. Water at the base of the plant to avoid getting the foliage wet, which helps prevent fungal diseases.

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