PLANT CARE — River Garden Nurseries

Tips For Looking After Your Boxwood

PLANTING

Box will grow best in a well drained soil and if the ground is heavy it is advisable to fork in some garden compost before planting.

WATERING

The first year. All box in the ground requires watering in its first year of planting, particularly during dry and hot periods when the Buxus will require weekly watering. If the ground is damp be careful not to over water as waterlogged ground causes root damage. Topiary in pots needs careful watering and it is important that the compost never completely dries out. Virtually no watering is required from late autumn to late winter.

FEEDING

Feed your plants in the early spring. A second light top dressing of fertiliser between June and August may be necessary to support the plant after the extra demands made by clipping but be guided by the colour and condition of the leaves. Choose a well balanced NPK product with trace elements. Use a controlled slow-release fertiliser for topiary in containers.

ROOT PRUNING

If the box plant looses its colour and vigour after a few years in the same pot it may be a sign the the root system is crowding the inside of the pot and may need root pruning. To do this, remove the root ball from the pot and cut back evenly. This will allow you to re-pot with a margin of new compost and a slow release fertiliser.

CLIPPING

Clip once the new growth has completely matured (normally by June). You may wish to do a light clip late in the summer, once the growing period has come to an end, in order to have a neat surface for the winter. Avoid clipping during periods of extreme heat.

ANNUAL MAINTENANCE AND PLANT HYGIENE

Plant hygiene is important. Good air circulation around and through the plant will reduce infection. Shake out any old leaves and debris from your plant and remove from the area.

PESTS AND DISEASES

There are a few pests and diseases which have the ability to damage box. Before taking any action it is necessary to identify the problem and a good source of information is the Royal Horticultural Society website .