![]() However, boxwood blight weakens plants and makes them susceptible to other pests and diseases. The disease doesn’t directly affect the roots, so plants may grow back. Dark brown to black streaks may also appear on stems. Plants drop their leaves quickly after being infected, so this stage is often missed. One of the first signs is light to dark brown circles with darker borders on the leaves. First reported in the United States in 2011, it has now been detected in 27 states and continues to spread. What is boxwood blight?īoxwood blight is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and branches of boxwood plants. insularis) survive well in lower temperatures, making them the best choice for cold climate gardens. Green Tower)įor colder zones: Korean boxwoods ( B. (Staff picks: Buxus ‘Green Mountain’ and B. insularis ‘Winter Gem’)įor spirals and cones: Use taller, more vigorous plants that have a naturally conical or columnar shape. (Staff picks: Buxus microphylla Sprinter®, B. ‘Green Velvet’)įor hedges and edging: Use moderate to fast-growing varieties and plant at half the distance recommended. (Staff picks: Buxus sempervirens North Star®, B. Fast-growers may outgrow their shape quickly and need continual upkeep. Here are a few recommendations:įor topiaries and globes, groundcover, or rock gardens: Dwarf English boxwoods work well because their dense form and slow growth rate mean less pruning and maintenance. With so many sizes, growth rates and habits it can be tough to decide which one is best. Deer resistance:Ī useful part of a deer-resistant garden, as the same alkaloid that makes them toxic also makes them distasteful and can give off a pungent scent, deterring deer. See below for more information and planting alternatives. Boxwood blight is a serious problem in many states. They can also be susceptible to powdery mildew, Pythium root rot, canker and leaf spots. ![]() Diseases and pests:īoxwood leaf miners, scale insects, lesion nematodes, caterpillars and mites can be a problem treat with organic neem oil or insecticidal spray. Water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and conserve moisture with a layer of mulch that extends 12 to 15 inches past the foliage line. ![]() Once established, they’re quite drought tolerant and only need extra watering during dry spells. In their second year, root systems are still developing, so continue to water regularly if rainfall isn’t enough. Water newly planted shrubs regularly for the first year, especially during hot, dry weather. Be careful their shallow root systems can be damaged by over fertilizing. Apply the fertilizer throughout the root zone, which extends beyond the crown of the plant. Amendments & fertilizer:Īpply a balanced all-purpose fertilizer in spring to promote foliage growth, and again in fall to encourage root growth. For more on proper soil preparation and how to adjust your pH if needed, read Garden Soil 101. Soil:īoxwood bushes are extremely flexible and can adapt to various types of well-drained soils. The new growth that is prompted from cutting won’t be any hardier than what was damaged, so hold off until spring when new growth can make a comeback. If bronzing of the foliage does occur, resist the temptation to cut it back immediately. Apply a good layer of mulch to keep the roots insulated this will also conserve moisture to prevent dehydration damage from cold winter winds. Provide extra protection from cold temperatures and winds with burlap wraps, decorative protection, or a windbreak. Shearing can be done with hand pruners, hedge clippers or electric trimmers. Thin the outer growth annually so that air and light can get in, and prune away any dead or diseased branches from the center of the plant. While a nice, compact bush may look healthy on the outside, that dense outer foliage (caused from over pruning) can keep air and light from getting to the inner part of the plant. Photo by: Mykhailo Pavlenko / Shutterstock. (See more Common Poisonous Plants for Dogs and Cats.) PLANTING BOXWOOD SHRUBS Contact with the sap can cause skin irritation. Are boxwoods toxic?īoxwood bushes contain an alkaloid that is toxic to dogs, cats and horses, as well as humans. Many have darker blue-green foliage, others are a paler green color, and some have variegated leaves. Mainly grown for their foliage their leaves grow opposite, are lance-shaped to almost rounded, and are leathery to the touch. Small, insignificant, yellow-green flowers bloom in spring. ![]() If planting in a brighter location, look for varieties that may be more tolerant of sun, such as ‘Morris Midget’. Overexposure to sun causes burning and bronzing of foliage. They prefer partial or dappled shade, but can tolerate full sun - short of scorching mid-day sun. Varieties range from 1 to 20 feet tall, 2 to 8 feet wide. 5 to 9 for most, with a few varieties hardy to Zone 4.
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