Boxwood Shrubs: Why they're perfect in your landscape

Last Updated on: 13th January 2024, 06:14 am

Boxwoods are ever-popular–and for very good reason!

Boxwood shrubs are perfect for anyone who might desire an evergreen shrub that’s versatile and easy to care for. With its dense foliage and ability to form into various shapes, the boxwood is a popular choice for hedges, topiaries, and formal gardens.

This article explains everything you should know about planting and caring for boxwood shrubs.

Planting Boxwood Shrubs

Boxwoods are hardy in USDA zones 5-9, so they are a perfect match for Tayloe’s Lawn Care customers in eastern North Carolina.

For those outside our service area, some varieties can be grown in zone 4 with protection from harsh winter winds. Before planting boxwood shrubs, check your USDA zone to ensure they will thrive in your area.

Boxwoods prefer partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, they may benefit from afternoon shade to prevent scorching. When planting boxwood shrubs, choose a location that receives the right amount of sunlight for your chosen variety.

Boxwoods prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. When planting, dig a hole slightly wider than the root ball and just as deep. Add compost or woody organic matter to the soil, then place the shrub in the hole and backfill it with soil, gently filling and patting it down as you go. Water thoroughly after planting.

When to Plant Boxwood Shrubs

The best time to plant these stunning evergreens is in the fall or early spring when the soil is moist and temperatures are mild. These timeframes will give the plants time to establish roots before the heat of summer or the cold of winter sets in.

Caring for Boxwood Shrubs

Boxwoods need regular watering, especially during their first year of growth. They prefer soil that is consistently moist but not soggy. Mulching around the base of your shrubs can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Boxwoods also benefit from an annual fertilizer application in early spring, just before its new growth emerges.

Pruning Needs Are Infrequent

These evergreens are slow-growing plants and require a trimming now more than once a year to maintain their shape. Prune these evergreens in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Take no more than one-third of the new growth. Use sharp, clean shears when pruning and cut just above a leaf or bud.

The Four Most Famous Varieties of Boxwood Shrubs

Boxwood shrubs come in many varieties, each with its unique characteristics. Some of the most popular varieties include the following cultivars:

American boxwood: a slow-growing, compact shrub that you may prune into various shapes.
English boxwood: a small, slow-growing shrub with dense foliage.
Japanese boxwood: a fast-growing, versatile shrub with small, glossy leaves.
Korean boxwood: a hardy shrub with small, dark green leaves.

NOTE: Boxwood makes our list of deer-resistant plants!

The Takeaway: Boxwood Shrubs Are a Compact Evergreen That Can Add Beauty to Your Yard

Boxwood shrubs are an excellent choice for any garden, thanks to their versatility, hardiness, and ease of care. By following the tips above, you can confidently plant and care for these gorgeous evergreens, ensuring that they will thrive and add beauty to your landscape for years to come.

Do you need help cutting grass, shrub pruning, pine straw, pressure washing, or other exterior maintenance? Connect with us at Tayloe’s Lawn Care Services, Aulander. We are local, professional, and reliable–we have the know-how to beautify your yard.

Author Profile

Deborah Tayloe

Deborah Tayloe is the CEO and co-founder of Tayloe's Lawn Care Services, LLC. She has a B.S.Ed and holds certificates in soil and water management and herbology from accredited programs.