What is Buxus Plant?
The Boxwood, also known as the Buxus plant, is an evergreen landscape shrub or small tree native to Europe, Asia, and Africa. Boxwoods can be grown in full or partial sun and in a variety of soils such as chalk, clay, loam, and sand. Boxwoods are also tolerant of both acid and alkaline conditions. Boxwoods are low-maintenance and versatile plants. They can be used in any landscape location such as borders, mixed beds, potted plants, or hedges.
How to Revive a Buxus Plant?
Buxus is a genus of about 70 species in the family Buxaceae. Planters often choose this plant for its unique leaves and its ability to be easily shaped into different forms. Although it’s a low-maintenance plant, if you think your Buxus might be dying, there are several things you can do to revive your plant. Let’s check out how to revive a Buxus plant.
First, assess the damage. If your plant is showing signs of stress such as brown leaves, wilting, or slow growth, it is important to take care to revive it. Once you have determined that your plant is indeed in distress, there are a few things you can do to help it recover.
Watering
One of the most common reasons for a stressed or dying Buxus is incorrect watering. Be sure to check the soil before watering. If the soil is still moist from the last watering, hold off until it has dried out somewhat. It is also important to make sure that the plant is getting enough water; if the leaves are wilting or turning yellow, this is a sign that the plant needs more water. However, be careful not to too much water can lead to root rot, which will kill the plant.
Fertilizing
If you think your Buxus might be under-fertilized, consider giving it a light application of fertilizer specifically designed for evergreens. Be sure not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excess growth and stress on the plant. A general rule of thumb is to fertilize once a year in early spring.
Pruning
Pruning can also help revive a stressed or dying Buxus. Pruning helps encourage new growth and allows the plant to focus its energy on producing strong new leaves and stems. To prune your Buxus, cut back any dead or damaged branches and then shape the plant as desired. It’s important to use sharp pruning shears so that you don’t damage the plant further; dull shears can tear branches instead of cutting them cleanly.
The Top 5 Problems of the Buxus Plant And How To Prevent Them
Here are the five most common issues faced by Buxus plants, along with some tips on how to overcome them.
1. Boxwood Diseases
The most common diseases affecting Buxus plants are fungal diseases such as boxwood blight and boxwood leafminer. These can be controlled with the use of fungicides, but it’s important to catch them early. Blight in particular can spread quickly and kill an entire plant if left unchecked.
2. Pests
Several types of insects are known to attack Buxus plants, including spider mites, mussel scale, and gal mites. These pests can be controlled with the use of insecticides, but again, it’s important to catch them early. Infestations can quickly get out of control and do serious damage to a plant.
3. Suckers
Buxus plants are known to produce suckers, which are new growths that come up from the roots or lower parts of the plant. Suckers can be removed by hand, but they will just keep coming back if you don’t address the underlying issue. Suckering is often caused by over-fertilization, so be careful not to overdo it when feeding your Buxus plant.
4. Gall mite
Gal mite is a type of spider mite that specifically attacks Buxus plants. These tiny pests suck the sap from leaves, causing them to turn yellow and eventually drop off. Gal mite infestations can be controlled with the use of insecticides, but again, it’s important to catch them early before they do too much damage.
5. Winter burn
Winter burn is a type of damage that can occur when Buxus plants are exposed to cold temperatures and drying winds. This damage is typically seen as brown or black patches on leaves or stems. Winter burn can be prevented by covering plants with burlap or other protective materials during periods of severe weather.
Common Fungal Diseases of Buxus Plants
Buxus plants are susceptible to a number of fungal diseases. These diseases can cause leaf blight, stem dieback, and root rot. Some of the most common fungal diseases of Buxus plants include Buxus Blight, Volutella blight, and Phytophthora root rot.
Buxus Blight
Buxus blight is caused by the fungus Volutella buxi. This disease affects both leaves and stems of Buxus plants. Symptoms include small brown spots on leaves which eventually turn black and drop off. Stems may also be affected, appearing water-soaked and dark brown. Severely infected plants may die.
Volutella Blight
Volutella blight is also caused by the fungus Volutella buxi. This disease primarily affects leaves, causing them to turn yellow and then brown. Severely affected leaves will drop off the plant. Stems may also be affected, appearing water-soaked and dark brown.
Phytophthora Root Rot
Phytophthora root rot is caused by the fungus Phytophthora cinnamomi. This disease primarily affects the roots of Buxus plants, causing them to turn brown and decay. Symptoms also include wilting leaves and stems, as well as plant death.
Fungal diseases can cause serious damage to Buxus plants. Some of the most common fungal diseases include Buxus Blight, Volutella blight, and Phytophthora root rot.
Protecting Boxwoods In Winter
Boxwoods are a popular choice for hedges and topiaries because of their dense, evergreen foliage. But did you know that boxwoods are susceptible to damage from winter weather? Here are a few tips to help that protecting boxwoods in winter.
Burlap
Burlap is an inexpensive way to protect your boxwoods from wind damage. Simply wrap the burlap around the base of the plant, securing it with twine or zip ties. Be sure to remove the burlap in the spring so that your plant can get the sunlight it needs.
Netting
For extra protection against heavy winds, you can drape netting over your plants. Netting will also keep snow from weighing down and breaking branches. Secure the netting to the ground with stakes, and be sure to remove it in the spring.
Mulch
Mulching your boxwoods helps insulate them from extreme temperature changes. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant, being careful not to pile it too high on the trunk. Mulching also helps prevent moisture loss, which is especially important in dry winter conditions.
Boxwood Temperature Tolerance
Boxwood shrubs are one of the most popular choices for hedges and topiaries, thanks to their dense foliage and ability to be shaped into a variety of forms. Boxwoods are also relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. When it comes to temperature, boxwoods can withstand freezing temperatures as low as -10°F (-23°C). This makes them suitable for planting in most hardiness zones, from zone 5 to zone 9.
Do Boxwoods Stay Green All Year
There are many varieties of boxwoods, and many of them stay green all year. However, some species change color in the fall, and the exact color can vary depending on the conditions. In general, boxwoods that are grown in full sun will be a deeper green, while those grown in partial shade will be a lighter green. The type of soil can also affect the color of boxwoods. Those grown in well-drained soil will be a brighter green, while those grown in heavy clay soil will be a more muted green. Ultimately, the best way to find out if a particular variety of boxwood will stay green all year is to ask your local nursery or garden center.
Signs Of Overwatering Boxwood
Overwatering your boxwood shrubs can have a number of negative consequences. The foliage may turn yellow or fade, the leaves may wilt, and the shrubs may even lose their color and turn pale. In extreme cases, overwatering can lead to defoliation and root rot. If you suspect that your boxwood shrubs are being overwatered, look for these signs:
- The foliage is yellow or faded.
- The leaves are wilting.
- The shrubs are losing their color.
- The foliage is turning pale.
- Defoliation will occur.
- Root rot is present.
Conclusion
By following these simple tips, you can help revive your stressed or dying plant and enjoy its beauty. With proper care and treatment, however, these problems can be overcome and your Buxus plant will thrive for years to come.