Table of Contents
- Key Takeaway:
- Japanese Boxwood Specifications
-
- Step-by-Step Planting Guide for a Flourishing Japanese Boxwood
- Choosing the Right Location to Grow Your Boxwood
- Step-by-Step Planting Instructions for Japanese Boxwood
- Caring for and Maintaining Japanese Boxwood
- Pruning Japanese Boxwood
- Japanese Boxwood Pest Management and Disease Prevention
- Landscaping with Japanese Boxwood
- Buying Japanese Boxwood
- Conclusion
- FAQ Section
- Can Japanese Boxwood tolerate cold temperatures?
Japanese Boxwood (Buxus microphylla var. japonica) is a hardy evergreen shrub with small glossy green leaves and dense foliage.
Of all ornamental boxwood, this species, also known as little leaf boxwood, is among the easiest to grow.
Due to its trouble-free nature plus its ability to take severe and heavy pruning, it is easily an evergreen garden stable for hedges.
Their dense foliage and naturally rounded shape also contribute to making them an excellent choice for hedges, borders, and topiaries. Compared to English Boxwood or American Boxwood, they are also more disease-resistant.
Japanese Boxwood is highly adaptable and thrives under moderate watering regimens. It is usually cold-hardy in zones 4–9, with some cultivars being more cold-tolerant.
Read on to learn about the best planting practices, routine care, and maintenance techniques for Japanese Boxwood.
Key Takeaway:
Japanese Boxwood is a hardy, evergreen shrub. This plant has a dense foliage system that makes it one of the best choices for hedges and topiaries.
When compared to other boxwood varieties like the English or American boxwood, this one is easy to grow and more resistant to diseases.
They require a moderate amount of water to meet their moisture requirements in a well-draining, slightly acidic, neutral soil that has enough exposure to sunlight.
Yellowing leaves may mean parts of the boxwood shrub are not getting an adequate supply of sunlight.
The boxwood blight is becoming a rampant fungal disease, so it is crucial to buy boxwood from reliable nurseries.
You can buy high-quality Japanese boxwood at Privacy Shrubs
Japanese Boxwood Specifications
Check out the physical specifications of the Japanese Boxwood, including its grow zones and best planting conditions.
Specification | Details |
Botanical Name | Buxus microphylla var. japonica |
Common Name | Japanese Boxwood |
Plant Type | Evergreen shrub |
Mature Size | 4-6 feet tall, 2-5 feet wide |
Sun Exposure | Loves full sun to partial shade |
Soil Type | Thrives in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. |
Soil pH | 5-6.5 |
Hardiness Zones | USDA zones 6-9 |
Growth Rate | Slow growing |
Maintenance Level | Low, requires pruning to maintain its shape. |
Step-by-Step Planting Guide for a Flourishing Japanese Boxwood
As tough as they are, it is important to exercise care when choosing a site to plant the Japanese Boxwood.
Keep in mind that they do need some sunlight to flourish. However, too much heat can cause their roots to dry out and could also damage the foliage.
Ideal Planting Time:
Early spring or summer is the best time to plant the Japanese Boxwood.
Planting during these seasons allows them to establish roots in mild conditions before the stress of extreme heat or cold sets in.
What does it mean for a plant to be established?
An established plant has developed a strong, widespread root system. The mature system can absorb water and nutrients from the soil very well. So, the plant becomes more self-sufficient and requires less intensive care from the gardener.
Signs of an established plant include good, healthy growth above ground. Also, meeting its expected annual growth rate and being able to tolerate reduced watering without decline are all good signs that a plant is becoming well-established.
The time it takes for a plant to become established varies from plant to plant. Trees and shrubs may take 2+ growing seasons, while perennials may take 1 year or more.
During the establishment phase, plants demand intensive care to help their roots spread and become self-sufficient. Once established, you can reduce their care and watering needs.
Loosening the soil and adding organic matter like compost can help speed up the establishment process. The care practices improve soil structure and nutrient availability for the plant's roots.
The more you observe the growth and vigor of your Japanese Boxwood, the better your ability to tell when it has become well-established and will demand less care from you.
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Choosing the Right Location to Grow Your Boxwood
It is highly important to select the best site for your Japanese Boxwood. The following conditions will directly impact your health and how well your boxwood grows:
Sunlight Requirements: Japanese Boxwood does well in sunny locations except in the hottest zones. Full sun to partial shade works fine.
However, they need up to 6 hours of sunlight. If you notice a section of your shrub turning pale or discolored, it is likely due to insufficient sunlight. So, plant your boxwood where the sunlight is sufficient for it to look lush and healthy.
Soil Type: The Japanese Boxwood is an adaptable plant. They can tolerate sandy soil with good drainage as it prevents waterlogging, which Boxwood cannot tolerate.
Their preference, however, is well-drained, loamy, and fertile soil. In regards to acidity, the best soil for the plant should have a pH level between 5.0 and 6.5.
If your soil pH is too low or too high, you can adjust it by adding lime or sulfur, respectively. Add organic matter such as compost, peat moss, or leaf mold to improve the soil.
You can also add some mulch around the base. This will help retain moisture in the soil.
Tools | Purpose |
Garden Fork | For loosening and aerating soil |
Compost | Helps to enhance soil fertility and drainage |
Mulch | Helps retain moisture and suppresses weeds |
Watering can | For watering the plants safely |
Garden Gloves | Useful for protecting your hands during planting |
Measuring Tape | This is crucial for the proper spacing. |
Shovel | For digging planting holes |
Step-by-Step Planting Instructions for Japanese Boxwood
1. Remove the Boxwood from Its Container: Take the boxwood out of its nursery pot. If the shrub is wrapped in a burlap, cut the fabric off and gently loosen the roots if they are root-bound.
2. Dig the Hole: Dig a hole that is at least 6 inches wider and deeper than the root ball. Then, add in some good topsoil. If your soil is mostly clay, then add some manure and peat moss to make drainage better.
3. Prepare the hole: Pour water into the hole until it's about 1/4 full. Then, add a few inches of the soil mixture (your soil, manure, and peat moss blend).
4. Place the Shrub: Gently place the boxwood in the hole. Stand it upright while you add soil around the sides to hold it securely. Make sure the shrub is straight and at the right depth (where the roots start spreading out should be at ground level).
5. Tamp Down the Soil and Water: Firmly press the soil around the boxwood using a spade or trowel. Water the new plant thoroughly and deeply but don't overdo it. Afterwards, water the boxwood regularly, which is typically every day for the first three days, then every other day for the next two weeks.
Growing Boxwoods in Containers
You can grow your boxwoods in containers, but choose a pot that gives the roots enough space. Use well-drained garden soil mixed with peat moss and manure.
Water the plant regularly, as container plants dry out faster. During the winter season, protect the roots from freezing by moving the container to a warmer, sheltered area like a porch or garage.
Maintaining Your Boxwoods
One of the good things about boxwood is that it requires little maintenance. Well, except they are hedges that require trimming. Ensure to prune dead or discolored branches as necessary.
Boxwoods don’t require that much feeding but a top dressing of manure in the fall helps keep the soil healthy. Endeavor to water them during dry spells. If you properly maintain your boxwood, its visual effect on your home, garden, and landscape will be worth the trouble.
Spacing Tips for Hedge Formation: Boxwood shrubs are generally spherical, so their width and height are nearly the same. To form a hedge, space the plant in a line.
For a medium-tall and wide hedge, space plants 2’-4’ apart. Initially, there may be gaps, but the plants will fill in over time.
For individual shrubs, space 3-4 feet apart to allow for full growth.
For a lower hedge (1’ to 2’ tall), space plants closer together, between 12” and 24”.
Planting Process: Place the plant in the hole and backfill it with soil. The hole should be wide and shallow. To build your hedge, dig a long trench for the root balls instead of individual holes. Water thoroughly to settle the soil.
Watering After Planting: Water the shrub deeply immediately after planting and continue to water daily for the first few days if the weather is dry. This will help the plant to establish. For pot planting, choose a large clay pot with excellent drainage. Trim any old or dead roots to stimulate new growth and repot every 2-3 years before new leaf buds appear.
Caring for and Maintaining Japanese Boxwood
Watering: The roots of the Japanese Boxwood are shallow, so they will benefit the season.
This is especially important during the hot weather. Once established, water every 1-2 weeks during dry periods. The key is to water deeply and thoroughly every 1-2 weeks, allowing the soil to dry out somewhat between waterings. This trains the roots to grow deep for stability and drought resistance. Avoid watering the plant from above to help prevent foliage disease.
Method: Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to deliver water directly to the root zone. Make sure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging. Occasional misting can help replicate natural humidity and maintain vibrant foliage.
Mulching: Use organic mulch, such as compost. For the depth, extend the mulch several inches beyond the outer diameter. You can apply a 2-3 inch layer around the base, keeping it a few inches away from the stem to prevent rot. Mulch helps protect Boxwood’s shallow roots, retains soil moisture, suppresses weeds, and regulates fluctuating soil temperature.
Fertilizing: The best time to fertilize Japanese Boxwood is in early spring and fall. Use a fertilizer formulated for evergreen shrubs and acid-loving plants. This type will have an adequate supply of micronutrients like magnesium, manganese, and zinc. Avoid adding too much fertilizer so you don’t burn the roots of the plant. Once every 2 months is fine during the growing stage. Then, subsequently, reduce the application.
Pruning Japanese Boxwood
Pruning is the most time-consuming part of caring for boxwoods. Yet, as time-consuming as it is, it is also a significant aspect of growing and maintaining it. The good thing is that this plant fares well with a good trim. Its attractive form will be even better with yearly pruning.
Pruning Japanese Boxwood removes unwanted growth in an even manner. This way, the compactness and density are kept.
Prep your pruning tools to deliver easily on the job. That means you should keep them sharp. Clean tools are also very important. Hand-held pruners deliver well. You can also use a guide form for a topiary-style boxwood.
Avoid excessive pruning, as this leads to a thick outer layer. The result is an inner layer that lacks sunlight. When this happens, the leaves from the inner layer will drop.
When to Prune: You can prune boxwood in the fall on a dry day. Make sure you use clean tools to avoid spreading diseases.
Pruning Tools:
Hand Pruners: For small branches and precise cuts.
Hedge Shears: For shaping and trimming hedges.
Loppers: For thicker branches that hand pruners can't handle.
Pruning Process:
Sanitize Tools: Rub alcohol on the tools to clean them. This will prevent the spread of diseases.
Remove Dead or Diseased Wood: Cut back any dead, damaged, or diseased branches to healthy tissue.
Thin Out: Remove inner branches to improve air circulation and light penetration.
Shape: Trim the plant to the desired shape, making cuts just above leaf nodes to encourage bushier growth. You can use a guide shape to help you.
Avoid overpruning: Remove no more than one-third of the plant at a time to prevent stress.
Japanese Boxwood Pest Management and Disease Prevention
Close-up of caterpillars on glossy Japanese Boxwood leaves. Source: Pixabay)
Monitor and proactively manage potential issues to keep your Japanese Boxwood free from pests and diseases. One way of doing this is to inspect the plant regularly and take fast action if you notice any diseased leaves. Remove and dispose of any infected plant material immediately to prevent spread.
Issues | Signs of Infestation | Treatment | Prevention |
Boxwood Leafminer | Shows as brown splotches and blistering on leaves | Use insecticidal spray oil. | Carry out regular inspections to detect early. |
Mites | Look out for tiny brown flecks on leaves. | Miticides | Monitor the leaves for webbing and treat fast. |
Scale | Look out for small, hard bumps on stems and leaves | Horticultural oil | Regularly check for scale and treat as needed |
General Disease Prevention | Make room for air circulation by proper spacing and thinning, clean up fallen leaves and debris, and sanitize pruning tools before and after use |
Landscaping with Japanese Boxwood
Japanese Boxwood is highly adaptable and very attractive. You can enjoy its shapes in various forms—from globe to columns or on the ground, where it assumes a prostrate form. Here are some ideas and tips for incorporating Japanese Boxwood into your garden:
Formal Hedges: Japanese Boxwood is ideal for forming structured hedges. Its dense foliage and slow growth make it perfect for defining garden boundaries. To get a dense hedge, plant boxwoods 1-2 feet apart. Then, trim regularly to maintain the desired height and shape.
Topiary Art: Due to its tolerance for pruning, Japanese Boxwood can be designed into globes, weeping pyramids, and other intricate designs. Regular trimming and shaping are essential to maintaining the style. Use sharp shears and prune during the growing season.
Buying Japanese Boxwood
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$54.95
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In recent times, this generally trouble-free plant has been troubled by the boxwood blight.
It is becoming increasingly important to buy boxwood from reliable nurseries.
At PrivacyShrubs, our plants are carefully selected and nurtured to ensure they arrive at your doorstep healthy and ready to thrive in your garden.
Here's what we do differently:
Quality and Health:
Healthy Plants: We grow our Japanese Boxwood under the best conditions, so you receive robust plants for your landscape.
Variety: We have many Japanese Boxwood varieties to suit the needs and preferences of our clients.
Expert Support:
Personalized Planting Advice: Our team of gardening experts is always ready to answer all your questions and give you insight into your specific planting conditions and goals.
Comprehensive Care Guides: Our care guides are detailed and comprehensive. It covers every aspect of growing and maintaining Japanese Boxwood.
Customer Service Excellence: Our dedicated customer service team is always available to handle and resolve your worries and concerns.
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Conclusion
The versatile Japanese Boxwood shrub is an all-time favorite for many obvious reasons. It is generally trouble-free and easy to manage and maintain.
Japanese Boxwood adds structure and beauty to any garden and landscape. This plant will fit your outdoor space as formal hedges, topiary art, or foundation plantings
We have been servicing the needs of enthusiastic gardeners and will be happy to lend an expert hand.
You can visit our website to explore our selection and take advantage of our personalized support.
Are you ready to transform your garden with Japanese Boxwood? Go ahead and contact our expert team today for personalized advice and to discuss your specific landscaping needs.
FAQ Section
What type of soil is best for Japanese Boxwood?
Japanese Boxwood prefers well-drained, fertile soil. You should conduct a soil test before amending the soil with organic matter or adding fertilizer. Also, avoid growing this plant in areas with poor drainage.
How do I prune my Japanese Boxwood?
You can use hand pruners to remove dead or diseased parts of the plant. This also brings the advantage of thinning out of the plant to improve air circulation.
What are common pests and diseases affecting Japanese Boxwood?
Japanese Boxwood is a resilient plant. However, it can still suffer attacks by common pests like boxwood leafminers, mites, and scale.
Diseases such as boxwood blight can also affect these plants. Try to monitor your boxwood and administer prompt treatment if you notice any pest or disease attack
Can Japanese Boxwood tolerate cold temperatures?
Yes, Japanese Boxwood is cold-tolerant. This plant can withstand temperatures down to -20°F (-28°C). However, protecting it from harsh winter winds is necessary to prevent foliage damage.
