Key Points Summarized

  • Boxwood (Buxus) is an evergreen shrub known for its decorative foliage but has a slow growth rate.
  • Growth can be enhanced through proper care and maintenance.
  • Key steps include respecting planting practices, managing watering, mulching, fertilizing, and pruning.

1. Respect the Correct Planting Practices

To ensure healthy growth, it’s essential to plant boxwood correctly:

  • Timing: Plant in spring (ideally March) or fall.
  • Soil: Use rich, well-drained calcareous soil to avoid stagnant water.
  • Spacing:
  • 20 cm for border plants
  • 60 cm for hedge subjects
  • At least 1.50 m for bedding plants
  • Hole Preparation: Dig a hole slightly wider and deeper than the root ball to accommodate boxwood’s shallow roots.

2. Mastering Watering

Proper watering is crucial:

  • Keep the soil evenly moist, not soggy, to prevent root rot.
  • Water once a week in hot, dry weather, preferably in the morning, avoiding wetting the foliage.
  • Check Soil Moisture: Insert your finger into the soil; if it’s dry at the second phalanx, it’s time to water.

3. Mulch the Foot

Applying mulch helps retain moisture:

  • In hot, dry conditions, spread organic mulch or bark chips around the base to reduce evaporation.
  • Mulch is also beneficial in winter to protect young plants from severe cold.

4. Fertilize

Boost foliage growth with proper fertilization:

  • Apply a liquid shrub fertilizer in spring to support healthy growth.

5. Prune to Stimulate Growth

Regular pruning encourages new growth:

  • Prune 2-3 times a year, avoiding frosty periods.
  • Remove diseased, dry, or damaged branches, and maintain the desired shape without cutting too short.
  • Wait until leaves are fully mature before pruning to avoid damaging new growth.

By following these maintenance tips, you can enhance the growth of your boxwood and enjoy its beauty in your garden!

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