Fertilizing Your Boxwood Plant:
The Dos and Don’ts

Boxwood plants are widely popular for their evergreen foliage, dense growth pattern, and versatility in landscaping. However, to maintain the health and vigor of your boxwood plant, fertilization is essential. Fertilizers provide nutrients to the soil and help the plant grow stronger, greener, and more resilient.

In this article, we will discuss the dos and don’ts of fertilizing your boxwood plant to help you achieve optimal growth and beauty.

Dos of Fertilizing Your Boxwood Plant

Do Test the Soil Before Fertilizing

Before applying any fertilizer, it’s crucial to test the soil pH level. Boxwood plants prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. If the pH level is too high or too low, the plant may not be able to absorb the nutrients effectively, leading to poor growth or even damage.

You can test the soil pH level using a home test kit or by sending a sample to a local laboratory for analysis. Once you know your soil’s pH level, you can choose an appropriate fertilizer that matches your boxwood’s needs.

Do Choose a High-Quality Fertilizer

Not all fertilizers are created equal. It’s essential to choose a high-quality fertilizer that contains balanced nutrients such as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K).

For boxwood plants, slow-release fertilizers are preferred as they release nutrients gradually over time, reducing the risk of over-fertilization. Organic fertilizers such as compost, bone meal, or blood meal are also excellent choices as they improve soil structure and promote beneficial microorganisms.

Do Apply Fertilizer at the Right Time

Timing is crucial when it comes to fertilizing your boxwood plant. The best time to apply fertilizer is in early spring or late fall when the plant is actively growing. Avoid fertilizing during hot summer months or winter dormancy as the plant may not be able to absorb the nutrients effectively.

Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package carefully, and do not exceed the recommended amount. Over-fertilization can burn roots and foliage, leading to irreversible damage or death.

Do Water Your Plant After Fertilizing

After applying fertilizer, it’s important to water your boxwood plant thoroughly. Watering helps dissolve the fertilizer and distribute the nutrients evenly throughout the root system.

Water your plant deeply but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot or other fungal diseases. As a general rule of thumb, water your boxwood plant once a week during dry spells and less frequently during rainy seasons.

Don’ts of Fertilizing Your Boxwood Plant

Don’t Use Too Much Fertilizer

Over-fertilization is one of the most common mistakes gardeners make when fertilizing their plants. Applying too much fertilizer can burn roots and foliage, leading to yellowing, wilting, or even death.

Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer package carefully, and do not exceed the recommended amount. If you’re using slow-release fertilizers, be patient as they may take longer to show results than quick-release ones.

Don’t Apply Fertilizer on Dry Soil

Fertilizers need moisture to dissolve and release nutrients effectively. If you apply fertilizer on dry soil, it may not be able to penetrate deep into the root system or distribute evenly throughout the soil.

Water your boxwood plant thoroughly before applying fertilizer, and avoid fertilizing during hot or windy weather conditions as they can cause rapid evaporation.

Don’t Apply Fertilizer Near Trunks or Stems

When applying fertilizer, it’s important to keep it away from trunks or stems as it can burn them and cause irreversible damage. Instead, apply fertilizer evenly around the drip line (where rainwater falls off the leaves) or slightly beyond.

Also, avoid piling up mulch around trunks or stems as it can create a moist environment that promotes fungal diseases.

FAQ Section

How often should I fertilize my boxwood plant?

You should fertilize your boxwood plant once a year in early spring or late fall using a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during hot summer months or winter dormancy.

What type of fertilizer is best for boxwood plants?

Boxwood plants prefer balanced fertilizers with a ratio of 10-6-4 (N-P-K) or 12-6-6 (N-P-K). Slow-release organic fertilizers such as compost, bone meal, or blood meal are also excellent choices.

Can I use Epsom salt as a fertilizer for my boxwood plant?

Epsom salt can be used occasionally as a supplement for magnesium and sulfur but should not replace regular fertilization with balanced nutrients. Follow the instructions carefully and do not exceed the recommended amount.

Can over-fertilization harm my boxwood plant?

Yes, over-fertilization can burn roots and foliage, leading to yellowing, wilting, or even death. Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer package carefully and do not exceed the recommended amount.

Is it necessary to test my soil before fertilizing?

Yes, testing your soil pH level is essential before applying any fertilizer. Boxwood plants prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. If the pH level is too high or too low, it can affect nutrient absorption and lead to poor growth or damage.