What To Know
- Whether you’re adding a touch of elegance to your front yard or creating a lush privacy hedge, planting boxwood bushes is a relatively easy task that can transform your outdoor space.
- Once the boxwood bush is planted, spread a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
- Yes, fall is an excellent time to plant boxwood bushes as the soil is still warm and the roots will have time to establish before winter.
Boxwood bushes, known for their dense, evergreen foliage and versatility in landscaping, have become a popular choice for homeowners and gardeners alike. Whether you’re adding a touch of elegance to your front yard or creating a lush privacy hedge, planting boxwood bushes is a relatively easy task that can transform your outdoor space. This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to plant boxwood bushes, ensuring their success and longevity.
Selecting the Right Boxwood Bush
The first step in planting boxwood bushes is choosing the right variety. There are numerous cultivars to choose from, each with its unique characteristics. Consider the size, shape, and growth habit that best suits your needs and the available space. Popular varieties include:
- American Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens): A classic choice known for its dense, rounded shape and dark green foliage.
- English Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens ‘Suffruticosa’): A smaller variety with a more upright growth habit and glossy, dark green leaves.
- Japanese Boxwood (Buxus microphylla): A compact and slow-growing variety with smaller leaves and a dense, rounded shape.
- Korean Boxwood (Buxus sinica var. insularis): A cold-hardy variety with a more open growth habit and light green foliage.
Choosing the Ideal Location
Boxwood bushes prefer well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. They thrive in full sun to partial shade, but can tolerate more shade than many other evergreen shrubs. When selecting a location, consider the eventual size and shape of the bush and ensure it has sufficient space to grow without overcrowding.
Preparing the Soil
Before planting, it’s essential to prepare the soil to provide optimal conditions for the boxwood bush. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the plant and just as deep. Amend the soil with compost or peat moss to improve drainage and fertility. If the soil is heavy clay, add some sand to improve drainage.
Planting the Boxwood Bush
1. Place the Plant in the Hole: Gently remove the boxwood bush from its container and place it in the center of the hole. The top of the root ball should be level with the surrounding soil.
2. Backfill and Tamp: Fill the hole with the amended soil, gently tamping down around the plant to remove any air pockets.
3. Water Thoroughly: Water the bush deeply and slowly to settle the soil and hydrate the roots.
Mulching and Watering
Once the boxwood bush is planted, spread a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Water the bush regularly, especially during the first growing season, to ensure it establishes a strong root system.
Fertilizing and Pruning
Fertilize boxwood bushes annually in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Prune them regularly to maintain their shape and size. Boxwood bushes can be pruned anytime from late spring to early fall.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Boxwood bushes are generally low-maintenance plants, but they can encounter some common problems, such as:
- Boxwood Blight: A fungal disease that causes leaf spots and defoliation. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
- Boxwood Psyllid: A tiny insect that feeds on boxwood leaves, causing them to curl and turn yellow. Control with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Winter Burn: Damage to leaves caused by cold temperatures and drying winds. Protect boxwood bushes by covering them with burlap or evergreen boughs during the winter months.
Wrap-Up: Boxwood Brilliance
Planting boxwood bushes is a rewarding endeavor that can add beauty and elegance to your outdoor space. By following these steps and providing the necessary care, you can enjoy the lush greenery and versatility of boxwood bushes for years to come.
What You Need to Learn
1. How far apart should I plant boxwood bushes? The spacing depends on the variety and desired effect. For a hedge, plant bushes 12-18 inches apart. For a foundation planting, space them 2-3 feet apart.
2. Can I plant boxwood bushes in the fall? Yes, fall is an excellent time to plant boxwood bushes as the soil is still warm and the roots will have time to establish before winter.
3. How long does it take for boxwood bushes to grow? The growth rate depends on the variety and growing conditions. American boxwood typically grows 6-12 inches per year, while Japanese boxwood grows more slowly.
4. Can I use boxwood bushes as a privacy hedge? Yes, boxwood bushes are ideal for creating privacy hedges due to their dense foliage and ability to be trimmed into various shapes.
5. What is the best way to prune boxwood bushes? Prune boxwood bushes using sharp shears and make clean, angled cuts. Prune to maintain the desired shape and size, removing any dead or diseased branches.
