Boxwood Care Guide
Care for boxwood by pruning in late spring, fertilizing once in early spring, maintaining consistent moisture, preventing blight through sanitation, and protecting from winter wind in cold zones.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water boxwood?
1 inch per week from rain plus irrigation. Boxwood has shallow roots that dry out quickly. Water deeply at the base rather than overhead spraying (wet foliage promotes blight). Mulch 2 to 3 inches around plants to retain moisture. In summer heat, check soil moisture weekly.
What fertilizer is best for boxwood?
A balanced granular like 10-10-10 or an acid-forming organic like Holly-Tone, applied once in early spring. Boxwood is a light feeder. One application per year is enough. Over-fertilizing produces soft growth that's vulnerable to disease and cold damage.
How do I prevent boxwood blight?
Sanitize pruning tools between plants (10% bleach). Water at the base, not overhead. Remove fallen leaves (blight spores survive in debris). Choose blight-resistant varieties for new plantings. Inspect new purchases before planting. Apply preventive fungicide if blight is confirmed in your area.
How do I prevent winter burn on boxwood?
Install burlap wind screens on the windward side in late November. Apply anti-desiccant spray (Wilt-Pruf) to foliage. Maintain soil moisture going into winter (dry roots worsen desiccation). In zone 5 to 6, winter burn is the most common boxwood problem.
