Boxwood Planting Guide

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 Boxwood prefer:

• Full sun to partial shade
   
• Well-drained soil (critical)
   
• Protection from harsh winter wind in heavy wind areas
   

⚠️ Poor drainage is the #1 cause of boxwood failure.

If water pools after rain, improve drainage before planting.

For hedges:

• 12–24 inches apart → Tight, formal hedge
   
• 24–30 inches apart → Standard spacing
   
• 30–36 inches apart → Looser screen
   

Green Velvet is commonly spaced 24 inches on center. Dig the hole 2x as wide as the root ball
 

• Hole depth should be equal to root ball height
   
• The top of the root ball should sit level with or slightly above surrounding soil
   
•  Do NOT plant too deep. This is the #1 mistake.

•  Dig hole 2x as wide as root ball
   
• Depth should be equal to root ball height
   
• Plant so top of root ball sits slightly above soil line (½–1 inch)
   

⚠️ Never plant boxwood too deep.

Boxwood roots need oxygen. Deep planting leads to decline over time.

•  Gently loosen circling roots
   
• Set plant straight
   
• Backfill with native soil (avoid heavy compost blends)
   
• Lightly firm soil to remove air pockets
   

Do not overpack soil.

 After planting:

• Water thoroughly to soak root ball
   
• First 4–6 weeks: 2–3 deep waterings per week
   
• After establishment: Once per week during dry periods
   

Soil should be moist — not saturated.

• Apply 2–3 inches of mulch
   
• Keep mulch 2–3 inches away from stem
   
• Do NOT pile mulch against trunk
   

Mulch stabilizes moisture and protects shallow roots.

Boxwood can suffer winter burn.

To reduce risk:

• Water deeply before ground freezes
   
• Avoid south/west exposure if possible
   
• Consider burlap wrap in exposed locations
   
• Avoid heavy salt spray areas

•  Planting too deep
   
• Poor drainage soil
   
• Overwatering
  
• Heavy winter salt exposure

•  Minimal top growth first season
   
• 4–6 inches of growth annually (Green Velvet)
   
• Thick, dense form with regular light pruning