Plant Boxwood
Boxwood shrubs are low-maintenance plants with a dense, rounded shape. Boxwood thrives in the South and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States, but it can be planted and grown in many climates. Because of its density, glossy leaves and slow growth, boxwood is often utilized in modern hedge landscaping and Bonsai gardens. Although Boxwood is versatile and requires little upkeep, it must be planted correctly in order to flourish. Use these steps to plant boxwood shrubs.
Steps
- Decide whether to plant boxwood in a garden or a pot.
- This does not change the manner of planting drastically, but the mobility of a potted plant might suit your needs better than boxwood rooted in the ground.
- Choose the correct time to plant.
- Fall is the ideal season for planting boxwood, but it can also be successfully planted in spring or early summer.
- Determine where to plant.
- Depending on the type of climate in your region, you might be limited in where you can plant boxwood. If you live in a colder area, boxwood should be planted in a location where it will receive full sunlight. Also consider positioning the plant where it will be protected from cold wind.
- In warmer areas, boxwood should be planted where it will receive partial shade. In all regions, boxwood should be planted exposed to the north or south.
- Test your soil.
- The optimal pH level of the soil is slightly acidic, around 6 or 7 on the scale. Thick, fertile soil is best. The soil should also drain well, as boxwood's short roots require quick drainage so they do not drown.
- Loosen the ball of roots on a new boxwood plant so they are mostly spread out.
- If the plant is a transplant, skip this step.
- Dig a hole in the soil about as deep as the plant's height and as wide as the spread of the roots.
- If you are planting the boxwood in a pot, place the root ball into shrub soil about 2 inches (5.08 cm) deep.
- Place the boxwood inside the hole and cover the roots with water and soil about 2 inches (5.08 cm) short of the top.
- Pour 2 inches (5.08 cm) of mulch into the remainder of the hole and pack it down.
- Water the boxwood once a week during warm months and much less often during cooler periods.
Tips
- If the lower leaves of the boxwood begin to yellow, pour fertilizer onto the top of the soil.
- If you're potting the boxwood, choose a wide pot that drains well. The wider the pot, the less often you will have to water it or change pots.
Warnings
- Do not place boxwood shrubs too near other shrubs. It's safe to keep the plants about 3 feet (0.91 m) apart. Boxwood tends to invade the root systems of other plants and hoard the soil's nutrients.
- Do not plant boxwood in soil with heavy clay. Clay drains poorly.
Things You'll Need
- Boxwood plant
- Soil
- Gloves
- Water
- Mulch
- Fertilizer
- Spade
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