Are boxwoods suitable for beginners?
Written by
Michael Sullivan
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.Boxwood shrubs provide novice gardeners a welcoming pathway into gardening, thanks to their tolerance and classic look. These evergreens are appropriate for Zones 5-9, tolerate partial shade, and are rarely damaged by deer; that is a rare trifecta that makes boxwood a preferred shrub for beginner or low-maintenance gardens. I have helped countless first-time gardeners to be successful with boxwood even when they live in cities where pollution and confined soils would kill most other plants.
Soil & Watering
- Plant in well-drained soil amended with compost to prevent root rot
- Water deeply once weekly, overwatering kills more boxwoods than drought
- Mulch with 2 inches of bark to retain moisture and regulate temperature
Shaping & Pruning
- Prune in late winter before spring growth begins
- Use hand shears for precision, avoid electric trimmers that tear leaves
- Remove ⅓ of growth yearly to maintain dense foliage
Pest & Disease Prevention
- Space plants 3 feet apart for airflow to deter fungal diseases
- Inspect leaves monthly for boxwood blight (brown spots with yellow halos)
- Treat aphids with neem oil sprays instead of harsh chemicals
Steer clear of pitfalls I have observed over my fifteen years of landscaping experience. A client of mine, in Zone 6a, made the mistake of planting three boxwoods in clay with no drainage and lost all three immediately! The fourth boxwood we saved by raising it in a berm that contained about 50% compost! Test your soil first, and if necessary augment your soil impressively!
Although boxwoods are tolerant of sloppy pruning, they do not tolerate poor placement. As an example, a hedge at my neighbor's home grew beautifully in oak shade but turned yellow in the afternoon sun until we moved it. It now receives morning light and afternoon shade, providing beautifully green foliage to enjoy. Not surprisingly, the intense sun bleaches everything but the leaves in dry climates, even if the boxwoods are placed correctly.
For a quick visual effect, you can use a combination of Winter Gem boxwood with hostas in your shady beds or use Dee Runk columnar at gates or side beds. These combinations provide structure and a lush look without you needing to care for them every day. This is a perfect solution for a beginner who works for a living and dreams of gardening!
Read the full article: 10 Low Maintenance Shrubs for Effortless Landscapes
