Boxwoods are one of the most popular dense, evergreen shrubs that thrive in formal and elegant landscapes, and with many varieties and forms for cultivation.
The plants are famous for their foliage and the look they give your home when used as formal hedges or foundation plantings.
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How To Plant Boxwoods?
Plant boxwood shrubs in locations that receive full or partial sun to facilitate optimum growth. The plants do well in well-drained, organic soils with regular watering during summer to prevent root rot. Boxwood plants need shallow planting, and in a location where they are protected from winter wind to hinder plant stress and winter bronzing.
Everything You Need To Know About Planting Boxwoods
Boxwood plants have unique sets of growing conditions and needs compared to other vegetation at home.
They need the best conditions to thrive in your lawn by following the following;
- Remove all packaging
- Water boxwood plants in their pots
- Select a suitable location to suit the needs of the plant
- Prepare the soil for planting
- Dig a hole with equal pot depth
- Water adequately, allowing effective drainage
- Put back the rest of the soil in the hole
- Mulch around the plantation spot and start regular plant care
Preparing The Plant For Planting
Most gardeners understand that boxwoods require a combination of shade and sun for proper growth.
Protect these shrubs from cold winds, and hot sun, especially in the afternoons, so choose a spot that incorporates all these factors.
Boxwood plants require a proper soaking in water, especially if the root ball is dry. The surrounding soil needs to be damp and with no weeds that affect soil drainage.
Additionally, you can use fertilizers to promote root development. When planting the plant, place it at the center of the hole, ensuring the root ball levels with the surrounding soil, and apply gentle foot pressure to firm down after finishing.
Soil Requirements
For any successful growth of boxwood plants, good soil preparation is important. As much as these plants adapt to different soil conditions easily, they don’t do well in permanently wet soils.
They prefer moisture, so if sandy soil is available, add some organic material in plenty to make it suitable.
It is not advisable to fill the plantation hole with soil bought from elsewhere, so whatever type of soil you have, use it, and if it’s poor, use more organic material.
They do well in soils that are neutral or slightly alkaline. You may test your soil’s pH to ensure ideal conditions. Boxwoods grow in soils with adequate drainage as soggy and wet soil causes root rot.
If exposed to damp soils, the root ball gets over-saturated, making the roots weak and too fragile to perform normal root functions, killing the plant.
As such, stay clear of soils in low-lying locations and soil near downspouts of the gutter system.
These plants can adapt to other soil conditions easily, as long as the soil drains well. They are very versatile plants that give your lawn a touch of texture and elegance and highlight the already existing landscape features.
They are slow-growing shrubs that are evergreen, making your lawn look alive at all times, and they require adequate drainage for optimal growth and plant health.
Sunlight Requirements
Most varieties of boxwoods prefer locations with partial shade where most of the sunlight is filtered through the foliage of other tall trees and plants.
Boxwoods require light to grow, so if you plant them against any structure, ensure they receive adequate sunlight. They do well on the north side of structures with adequate sunlight, but can also be planted on the east, west, and south sides.
Boxwoods can bear direct sunlight when the temperatures are a little mild, but exposure to intense, direct sunlight kills the plants. These plants thrive in locations where they receive sun and shade, especially when they need shelter from the scorching afternoon sun.
The location where you plant boxwoods greatly affects how the plant grows, so select a suitable location for planting.
Most gardeners deal with yellowing boxwood leaves or discoloration caused by several reasons emanating from the plant’s location.
When To Plant Boxwoods
Most shrubs thrive when planted in fall, early spring, or summer for them to pick up before winter sets in. During spring there is little to no plant stress, which allows boxwoods to get acclimated to the new surroundings.
The plant doesn’t suffer through such extreme weather conditions like drought and heat, so it grows undisturbed.
The best time to plant boxwoods is in the fall, as it allows the roots to gain stability and take hold before the cold sets in. Avoid planting boxwoods during the summer heat or winter cold, otherwise the plant won’t do well come fall or spring.
Choosing The Best Boxwood To Plant
There are several factors to consider before choosing boxwoods for planting. Depending on your needs and preference, you can choose small, round shrubs which need minimal pruning, or larger plants to act as foundation plants.
As there are different sizes and varieties, research well to decide which is most suitable for your growing zone. Some home gardeners prefer tall shrubs, but most are more into small, compact hybrids.
Frequently Asked Questions about How to Plant Boxwoods
Why are boxwood plants popular?
Boxwood plants grown in a home landscape are used as formal hedges, to balance entryways, and as matching borders, but they also look well when planted as foundation plantings or focal points. Boxwoods are low-maintenance plants, requiring only watering and mulching. The soil needs of these plants are adaptable, but it’s crucial to consider the all-year climate of your surroundings when choosing a location.
How do I care for boxwood trees after planting?
Boxwoods require follow-up care to ensure they flourish in the selected location. This means using evergreen plant fertilizers and replacing the mulching over the roots every spring. In late spring, clip the plant regularly towards mid-fall. That gives the plant an attractive and dense appearance.
Is it easy to grow boxwood plants?
Boxwood plants are adaptable and very preferred by most gardeners and homeowners. They, however, do best when provided their preferred growing conditions. These plants are susceptible to conditions like winter bronzing when planted in unsuitable and unsafe locations. They thrive with some morning sun and a little shade in the afternoon, so subject them to areas with partial shade to full sun.
Conclusion
With proper planting, boxwoods do not require much maintenance, and they are a good source of lush, green, landscape beauty.
People like boxwoods for their topiary nature and their hedges which can withstand regular and heavy pruning without harming the plant. They are a good addition to winter decor.
Daniel has been a plant enthusiast for over 20 years. He owns hundreds of houseplants and prepares for the chili growing seasons yearly with great anticipation. His favorite plants are plant species in the Araceae family, such as Monstera, Philodendron, and Anthurium. He also loves gardening and is growing hot peppers, tomatoes, and many more vegetables.