Buxus, Box Hedging

To keep Buxus hedging healthy, water thoroughly after planting and deeply once a week during the first year, increasing to twice a week in hot weather. Once established, water every 10-14 days (about 2 weeks) during dry spells and reduce in cooler seasons. Check that the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry before watering again. Apply a 2–3-inch layer of mulch to retain moisture, keeping it away from the stems. Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to avoid overhead watering and prevent fungal diseases.

Prune Buxus hedges in late spring or early summer and consider a second trim in late summer for a formal look. Trim once or twice a year to maintain shape, using sharp shears to make clean cuts. Avoid removing more than one-third of the plant’s growth at once. Maintain a tapered shape with a wider base and narrower top to ensure sunlight reaches the lower parts. Regularly remove dead or diseased branches to promote health and vibrancy.

Feeding Buxus hedging is important for promoting healthy growth. Use a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring, applying according to package instructions. This provides essential nutrients and supports vigorous growth. Avoid over-fertilising, as this can lead to excessive foliage and increase the risk of disease. For the best results, ensure the soil is well-drained and water the hedge thoroughly before and after fertilising to help the nutrients penetrate the soil.

Box Blight is a fungal disease causing leaf spots and dieback. It spreads quickly in damp conditions, leading to defoliation. Remove and destroy infected plant material. Improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Apply a fungicide labelled for Box blight if necessary.

A pest that feeds on Box hedge leaves, causing significant defoliation and potential damage. Handpick and remove caterpillars or use biological control methods such as parasitic wasps. Apply an appropriate insecticide if infestations are severe.

Issues like poor soil, inadequate watering, or improper planting can hinder successful establishment. Ensure well-drained soil, and water regularly, and plant correctly at the appropriate depth. Amend the soil if necessary and address any drainage problems.

Small, sap-sucking pests that cause leaf yellowing and stunted growth, often protected by a hard shell. Remove scales with a soft brush or cloth. Apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to smother the pests and their eggs.