Boxwood shrubs (Buxus genus) are popular evergreens widely used in landscaping for their dense foliage and versatility in shaping. Propagating these plants from cuttings is a common and cost-effective method to multiply stock for hedges or garden accents. This process typically involves taking semi-hardwood cuttings—stems that have begun to mature but are still somewhat flexible—usually harvested in late summer or early fall. Growing boxwood from cuttings demands patience due to the plant’s naturally slow growth habit. Understanding the specific steps and timelines involved helps set realistic expectations for developing a new shrub.
Preparing the Cuttings for Successful Rooting
The initial preparation of the cutting influences the speed and success of root development. Gardeners should select healthy, four-to-six-inch tip cuttings from the current season’s growth when the stems are semi-hardwood, usually from July to September. Use a sharp, clean knife or shears to make a precise cut, as crushing the stem tissue can hinder water uptake and rooting.
The lower half of the cutting must be stripped of all leaves to prevent rot and expose the nodes where roots will emerge. Applying a rooting hormone powder or liquid to the prepared base is strongly recommended, as treated boxwood cuttings root faster and with a higher success rate. After dipping the base, the cutting is ready to be inserted into a sterile rooting medium.
Rooting Timeline: The Initial Growth Phase
The time required for a boxwood cutting to form a root system can vary widely depending on the environment and specific species. Under ideal conditions, new roots can begin to emerge in as little as six weeks. More commonly, the rooting process takes between one and three months before the cutting is adequately anchored.
Visual confirmation of rooting is often seen through the development of new growth at the tip of the stem, as the cutting will not attempt new foliage until it has established a water source. A simple physical check involves gently pulling on the cutting; resistance indicates that roots have formed. These initial roots are fragile and should remain in the propagation environment for several weeks after rooting begins to allow the system to strengthen.
Factors Influencing Growth Speed
Several environmental factors influence how quickly a boxwood cutting will progress through the rooting phase.
Rooting Medium
The composition of the rooting medium is important. A sterile, well-draining, and low-fertility mix is most favorable, such as a blend of peat moss and perlite or sand. Rich potting soil often holds too much moisture, increasing the risk of rot, which slows or halts the process.
Temperature and Light
Temperature control is crucial, as the ideal range for root development is usually warmer than ambient air temperature. Providing bottom heat can accelerate the rooting timeline. Maintaining high humidity around the foliage reduces water loss, often accomplished by placing the cuttings in a cold frame or covering them to create a mini-greenhouse. Monitor this enclosure to prevent excessive condensation, which can foster fungal diseases. Cuttings should be placed in a location that receives bright, indirect light, as direct sunlight can scorch the foliage.
Post-Rooting Growth Expectations
Once the boxwood cutting has rooted and been transplanted into a larger pot, the focus shifts from root formation to overall shrub development. Boxwoods are inherently slow-growing shrubs; visible growth above the soil line will be modest in the first year. The growth rate for many common varieties is typically between two and six inches per year, even for established plants.
During the first 12 to 18 months after transplanting, the young shrub dedicates most of its energy to expanding its root system. Significant height and width gain will not occur until the second or even third year, depending on the cultivar. Gardeners should keep the rooted cuttings in a nursery setting for one to two years before planting them into the permanent landscape, allowing them to establish a robust foundation.