The dense, evergreen boxwood (Buxus) shrubs are ideal for planting a border or a formal hedge. By nature, boxwood grows extremely slowly, depending on the variety, the growth rates are a maximum of five to ten centimeters per year. Diseases and pest infestations also depress the low growth rates.
The boxwood grows poorly in shady locations
What the Buchs needs for optimal growth
In order for your freshly planted box trees to grow at the desired speed and quickly develop shiny, dense foliage, they need ideal growth conditions. That's part of it:
- a sunny to partially shaded location
- this should be airy and not too warm
- However, the planting site should not be exposed to the wind, i. H. often exposed to strong winds
- a well-drained, humus-rich and fresh soil
- a pH between 7 and 8 (if necessary, lime before planting)
That is why the box tree does not grow
There are many reasons for the lack of growth in a boxwood.
Do not plant boxwood too deep
A common mistake is planting the young boxwood plants too deep. Plant them just as deep in the planter as before to allow the shallow root system, which grows just below the surface, to spread unhindered. The deep planting is often a reason why the young box does not really want to grow. Drought stress also leads to growth retardation, especially when it occurs during the rooting phase. To avoid this, you should cover the root area with a layer of mulch about five to seven centimeters thick and water the young plants regularly.
Wrong cutting
Incorrect pruning also has an inhibiting effect on the growth of the boxwood. Prune young shrubs in the first few years after planting after they have sprouted in spring. Do not shorten the entire new shoot up to the old wood, but leave a few centimeters. In this way, you encourage the growth of new branches. Also, do not prune later than September so that any freshly sprouting branches do not freeze back in winter.
pests and diseases
Of course, boxwood will not grow if it is weakened by a disease or a massive pest infestation and simply has no strength left for new growth. Check your plants regularly for diseases or pests and take appropriate countermeasures. In many cases - especially when it comes to a fungal disease - a strong pruning is necessary. In order to strengthen the plant afterwards, it needs fertilization with organic material, such as compost and horn shavings.(32.93€)
tips
In addition to an undersupply of nutrients, over-fertilization, especially with nitrogen, is a reason for the susceptibility of the boxwood to diseases and pests. Therefore, use organic fertilizers whenever possible.