The Gold Splash Euonymus (Euonymus fortunei ‘Roemertwo’) is a popular evergreen shrub, prized for its vibrant gold and green variegated foliage and low-maintenance nature. A favored choice for borders, containers, and mass plantings, it faces challenges gardeners should understand.
Identifying Common Pests
Gold Splash Euonymus can be susceptible to insect pests that diminish its appeal; vigilant inspection aids detection.
Euonymus scale (Unaspis euonymi) appears as small, waxy growths on leaves and stems. Female scales are oyster-shaped and brown (1/16th inch); males are white and oblong (1/32nd inch). Infestations cause yellow spots, leaf drop, stunted growth, and plant death. Pruning infested branches reduces populations. Horticultural oil sprays suffocate insects during their “crawler” stage.
Spider mites are tiny arachnids thriving in hot, dry conditions, difficult to see. Signs include fine webbing, especially on leaf undersides, and stippled or discolored foliage. Leaves may show yellow or white speckles.
To check, tap a branch over white paper; moving specks indicate mites. Strong water streams dislodge them. Insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils apply thoroughly.
Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects gathering on new growth and leaf undersides. Infestations cause curling leaves, stunted growth, and sticky honeydew. Sooty mold may grow on honeydew, blackening the plant. For light infestations, strong water sprays dislodge aphids. For persistent issues, insecticidal soaps or neem oil are effective.
Addressing Common Diseases
Gold Splash Euonymus can encounter various diseases, primarily fungal, impacting its vigor. Early symptom recognition is important for intervention.
Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease appearing as white to gray, powdery spots on leaves and stems. Affected leaves may yellow, curl, or drop prematurely. It thrives in high humidity and poor air circulation. Proper plant spacing and pruning improve air circulation. Horticultural oil or specific fungicides treat severe cases.
Fungal leaf spots appear as discolored spots on leaves, from brown to black, sometimes with distinct borders. Spots can merge, causing leaf damage and premature defoliation. Fungi thrive in wet conditions. Removing infected leaves and cleaning fallen debris minimizes disease spread. Avoiding overhead watering and good air circulation prevents new infections.
Root rot is caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing leaves, and stunted growth, even with moist soil. Healthy roots are firm and white; rotted roots are brown and mushy. Remove the plant, trim affected roots, and repot into fresh, well-draining soil. Proper drainage and allowing soil to dry between waterings is effective.
Managing Environmental Stress
Environmental factors influence Gold Splash Euonymus health. Addressing stressors helps the plant thrive.
Water imbalances cause stress. Underwatering leads to wilting and crispy leaves; overwatering results in yellowing leaves, soft stems, and root rot. Gold Splash Euonymus prefers consistently moist but not saturated soil, requiring deep, even watering. Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root issues.
Light issues impact plant health and variegation. Too much intense sun can scorch leaves and fade variegation, especially in hot climates. Insufficient light results in leggy growth and less vibrant foliage. Gold Splash Euonymus thrives in full sun to partial shade, ideally receiving 4-6 hours of direct sunlight for distinctive coloring.
Nutrient deficiencies appear as discolored leaves or stunted growth. General yellowing suggests nitrogen deficiency; yellowing between leaf veins indicates iron or magnesium shortage. Applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring replenishes nutrients. Soil testing identifies specific deficiencies for targeted treatment.
Temperature extremes cause damage. Cold temperatures below its hardiness zone (USDA Zones 5-8) cause browning and dieback. Prolonged excessive heat can lead to wilting and leaf drop. While cold-hardy and drought-tolerant, protecting the plant during severe freezes or extreme heat reduces stress.
Preventing Future Problems
Proactive measures and consistent care maintain Gold Splash Euonymus health, minimizing issues.
Proper planting is foundational for a healthy shrub. Select a site with well-drained soil; Gold Splash Euonymus does not tolerate standing water. Ensure adequate spacing for air circulation, important for preventing fungal diseases.
Routine monitoring allows early detection of pests or disease symptoms. Inspect leaves, stems, and the plant for unusual changes or insect activity. Promptly addressing issues prevents escalation.
Pruning improves air circulation and removes dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Pruning in late winter or early spring shapes the plant and promotes vigorous new growth. Consistent watering and balanced fertilization support robust growth, making the plant more resistant to stressors.