Marshall Place
 Boxwood
 RR4 Box 1210
 Dillwyn, VA 23936
 PH: 434-983-3364
 FX: 434-983-1032

 e-mail:
 wmoseley@hovac.com

GROWING TIPS

History

English Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens, 'Suffruticosa') a cultivar of American Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens, 'Arborescens'), is a slower grower and more compact than the latter. "Man's oldest garden oriental" was first introduced to North America from Europe in the mid-1600's when it was brought to the Virginia colony on tall-masted sailing ships. Very old plantings may be seen on the historic James River plantations, at Monticello, Mount Vernon, and around Williamsburg.

Location

The best region for growing boxwood is the eastern seaboard, Chesapeake Bay area, but they do well throughout the southern United States if cultural needs are met, and they are hardy to Zone 5. They can be grown under most light conditions, but the english prefer some shade. It's desirable to avoid windswept conditions.

Plantings

Boxwood are adaptable to a wide range of soil types and will need a pH of 6-7.5. They prefer a fertile, well-drained soil. Mature plants require 4-6 feet of spacing but closer planting and subsequent spacing results in improved appearance and value which increases with age. Plant slightly higher than in the nursery to allow for settling. The hole should be dug twice as wide as the existing root ball and filled with topsoil and organic matter. Adding some sand will help with drainage.

Mulching

Mulch to a depth of 1" should be applied at the time of planting and annually thereafter, preferably in late fall. The mulch will conserve moisture, protect the shallow roots from cold injury, and help in controlling weeds. Composted oak leaves, oak chips and pine bark are all suitable and may be chosen based on availability and cost.

Watering

Plants should be watered regularly during the first year after planting, and thereafter during periods of extended drought, or prior to a winter freeze. The hot summer months are most critical, but it is also important to ensure that the plants do not go into a winter freeze in a dehydrated condition. A good soaking once each week is normally sufficient. This should be omitted if rainfall is adequate (about one inch per week). Overwatering may cause problems (especially in poorly drained soil) as it promotes the growth of a root rot fungus. Conversely, dehydration may appear as patches of bright yellow leaves or a browning of the tips.

Feeding

At the time of planting, place 1-2 quarts of manure in the bottom of the hole and the same amount above the ground after filling the hole and before applying mulch. Fertilize annually thereafter during the winter months using weathered manure or other slow release fertilizer. Indications of lack of nutrients include a bronze color and little growth in the spring.

Maintenance

Pluck so that the center portion will receive air and light, and clean out any dead leaves that may have accumulated in the center of the plant. Remove all dead stems by cutting back to live wood.