The Buxus microphylla ‘Wintergreen’ is a popular, hardy evergreen shrub, favored for its dense, vibrant foliage that retains its color through the winter months. This slow-growing variety is widely used for creating formal hedges and adding year-round structure to the landscape. Understanding the correct planting process is necessary for establishing a healthy, long-lived boxwood. This guide provides the required steps for successful planting and immediate establishment care.
Site Selection and Soil Preparation
Planting the Buxus microphylla ‘Wintergreen’ is best done during the cooler seasons of early spring or early autumn, which allows the root system to establish without the stress of summer heat or winter cold. Selecting the proper location is important, as this boxwood thrives in partial shade where it receives morning light but is shielded from the intense heat of the afternoon sun. However, it can adapt to full sun exposures provided it receives consistent moisture throughout the growing season.
The chosen site must offer well-draining soil, as this specific shrub is highly susceptible to root rot if left standing in soggy conditions. While the Wintergreen Boxwood is generally adaptable, it performs optimally in a soil pH that is slightly acidic to neutral, ideally ranging between 5.5 and 7.5. Testing the soil before planting can provide an accurate measure of existing conditions.
If the native soil is heavy clay, it will need significant amendment to facilitate drainage, which can be accomplished by incorporating generous amounts of organic matter, such as high-quality compost or aged leaf mold. Conversely, sandy soils benefit from the addition of organic material to improve water retention capabilities. Ensuring excellent drainage is a primary factor in the long-term health and success of the boxwood.
Step-by-Step Planting Procedure
When preparing the planting area, the hole should be dug two to three times the width of the container, but no deeper than the height of the root ball itself. This shallow approach accommodates the boxwood’s naturally wide and shallow root system.
Before placing the shrub, carefully remove it from its container and examine the roots for signs of being root-bound. If the roots are circling tightly, gently score the sides and bottom or manually loosen them to encourage outward growth. This intervention prevents the roots from continuing to circle, which can lead to the plant’s decline.
Place the root ball into the center of the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is slightly above or level with the surrounding soil grade. Planting too deep is a common mistake that can suffocate the roots and must be avoided. Backfill the hole with the excavated soil, tamping lightly to eliminate any large air pockets.
Use the excess soil to create a shallow, circular berm around the edge of the planting area. This raised ring acts as a temporary reservoir, helping to direct water inward and ensure the initial deep watering penetrates the root zone effectively.
Immediate Establishment Care
The first action after planting is to give the Wintergreen Boxwood a deep, slow watering until the entire area is thoroughly saturated. This initial soaking helps the soil settle completely around the roots and eliminates any remaining small air pockets.
During the first year, the shrub requires consistent moisture to establish a robust root system. A deep watering once or twice a week is a general starting point, but the schedule must be adjusted based on rainfall and soil moisture content. Always check the soil a few inches down before watering again to prevent over-saturation, which can encourage fungal issues.
Applying an organic mulch, such as shredded bark or wood chips, is highly beneficial for the newly planted boxwood. A layer two to three inches deep helps conserve soil moisture, moderates soil temperature fluctuations, and suppresses weed competition. Keep the mulch material pulled back several inches from the base of the trunk to prevent moisture from causing stem decay or harboring pests. For the first winter, providing protection from harsh, drying winds and intense sun exposure can help prevent the foliage from developing a yellow-brown discoloration known as bronzing.