A Comprehensive Guide to Growing and Caring for Boxwood Shrubs

Are you interested in a versatile plant that can be used for topiaries, hedges, or left to grow naturally? Look no further than the boxwood shrub. Loved by Southern gardeners for centuries, these shrubs are a staple in historic gardens and landscapes.

Did you know that there are many different types of boxwood shrubs that can thrive in various climates? With over 97 species in the Buxus genus, there is a wide range of cultivars available to suit different growing zones.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into all aspects of growing and caring for boxwood shrubs. From propagation to pruning and maintenance, we will cover everything you need to know about these elegant plants.

What You’ll Learn

Table of Contents

What Is the Boxwood Shrub?
Cultivation and History
Propagation
How to Grow
Growing Tips
Pruning and Maintenance
Species and Cultivars to Select
Managing Pests and Disease
Best Uses
Quick Reference Growing Guide

What Is the Boxwood Shrub?

Boxwood shrubs are a staple in traditional landscaping designs worldwide. With dense, evergreen foliage that can be easily pruned, these shrubs can be shaped into trees or shrubs depending on your preference. The leaves are typically dark green on top and yellow-green underneath, providing year-round beauty.

Popular species include the common or American boxwood (B. sempervirens) and the littleleaf or Japanese boxwood (B. microphylla), each with its own unique characteristics. While the American boxwood is more common in the US, the Japanese boxwood is known for its smaller leaves and stature.

The name “boxwood” comes from the wood’s suitability for carving and woodturning, making it ideal for artisanal projects. These shrubs produce small yellow-green flowers in the spring, but are mostly valued for their glossy evergreen foliage.

Cultivation and History

Boxwoods are native to Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. They have a rich history of cultivation dating back to ancient civilizations like the Egyptians and Japanese. Boxwood has also been used in medicine for treating various ailments.

Popular species like B. microphylla and B. sempervirens are commonly grown in the US due to their adaptability to a wide range of climates. They are known for their resilience and ease of cultivation, making them popular choices for gardeners.

Boxwood Propagation

There are three main methods of propagating boxwood shrubs: from seed, cuttings, or transplants. Starting from seed requires time and patience, while cuttings and transplants are quicker and more suitable for beginners.

From Seed: Requires cold stratification and can take up to six months to germinate.
From Cuttings: Cuttings are taken in late summer to early fall and rooted in a potting mixture.
From Seedlings or Transplants: The easiest method, simply plant seedlings or nursery transplants in well-draining soil.

How to Grow Boxwood Shrubs

Plant your boxwood shrubs in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, and fertilize if necessary. Boxwoods are slow-growing plants that require minimal maintenance.

Growing Tips: Grow in moist, well-draining soil, apply mulch, and thin plants regularly for airflow.

Pruning and Maintenance

Pruning your boxwood shrubs is essential to encourage branch development and maintain their desired shape. Prune lightly in early winter, avoiding cutting off more than a third of the plant at once. Mulching is also recommended to retain moisture and keep the roots cool.

Boxwood Species and Cultivars to Select

When choosing boxwood species and cultivars, consider your growing zone and preferences for plant size and foliage. Popular species include American boxwood (B. sempervirens) and littleleaf boxwood (B. microphylla), each with unique variants and cultivars.

Common Varieties: ‘Suffruticosa’ and ‘Calgary’ are popular cultivars of the American boxwood, while ‘Wintergreen’ and ‘Winter Gem’ are preferred variants of the littleleaf boxwood.

Managing Pests and Disease

Boxwoods are relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but there are a few common issues to watch out for. Insects like leafminers, mites, psyllids, and mealybugs can affect these shrubs, along with diseases like blight, leaf burn, and leaf spot.

Insects: Leafminers, mites, psyllids, mealybugs, and scale insects are common pests that can be controlled with proper care and, if necessary, insecticides.
Disease: Blight, leaf burn, and leaf spot are fungal diseases that can be prevented by maintaining good garden hygiene and using fungicides when needed.

Boxwood Best Uses

Boxwood shrubs are versatile plants that can be used in various ways, such as foundation plantings, hedges, topiaries, and cut holiday arrangements. Their dense foliage and year-round appeal make them an excellent choice for adding structure and beauty to any garden.

Quick Reference Growing Guide

Plant Type: Woody shrub
Foliage Color: Green, yellow-green
Hardiness (USDA Zone): 4-9
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Water Needs: Moderate
Spacing: 2-3 feet
Height: 5-15 feet
Spread: 5-15 feet

Hedge Your Bets with Boxwood

In conclusion, boxwood shrubs are a fantastic addition to any garden, offering year-round beauty and versatility. Whether you’re a novice gardener or an experienced green thumb, these shrubs are easy to grow and care for, with minimal maintenance required.

Have you grown boxwood shrubs in your garden? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below. And remember, a good gardener never stops learning – keep exploring and expanding your gardening knowledge!

For more information on ornamental shrubs and garden care, check out our other helpful guides: