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Size Matters:
Choosing the Right Boxwood Plant for Your Landscape

Updated: March 26, 2023

Boxwood plants are a popular choice for landscaping due to their versatility, durability, and evergreen foliage. These plants come in a range of sizes, shapes, and varieties. Choosing the right boxwood plant for your landscape can be challenging, as it depends on various factors such as the size of your garden, the style of your home, and your personal preferences. In this article, we will discuss the different sizes of boxwood plants and how to choose the right one for your landscape.

Small Boxwood Plants

Small boxwood plants are ideal for compact gardens or as edging plants. These plants usually grow up to 2 feet in height and width. They are perfect for creating a formal look in your landscape or for adding structure to your garden beds. Small boxwood plants can also be planted in containers or pots to add interest to your outdoor space.

One popular small boxwood plant variety is the ‘Green Velvet’ boxwood. This plant has dark green leaves and grows in a rounded shape. It is low-maintenance and suitable for both sunny and shady areas.

Medium Boxwood Plants

Medium-sized boxwood plants are suitable for larger gardens and can be used as foundation plants or as hedges. These plants grow up to 4-5 feet in height and width. They are perfect for creating privacy screens or for defining outdoor spaces.

The ‘Wintergreen’ boxwood is a popular medium-sized variety that has shiny leaves and grows in an oval shape. It is a slow-growing plant that requires minimal maintenance.

Large Boxwood Plants

Large boxwood plants are ideal for spacious gardens or as accent plants. These plants can grow up to 10 feet in height and width, making them perfect for creating focal points in your landscape. They can also be used as backdrop plants or as green walls.

The ‘Green Mountain’ boxwood is a popular large variety that has a pyramidal shape and grows up to 5-8 feet tall. It has dark green leaves that retain their color throughout the year.

How to Choose the Right Boxwood Plant

When choosing a boxwood plant for your landscape, there are several factors to consider:

  • Size: Consider the size of your garden and the scale of your home when choosing a boxwood plant. Small boxwood plants are suitable for compact gardens or as edging plants, while medium-sized and large boxwood plants are suitable for larger gardens.
  • Sunlight: Consider the amount of sunlight the area receives when selecting a boxwood plant. Some varieties prefer full sun, while others prefer partial shade.
  • Soil Type: Consider the soil type of your garden when selecting a boxwood plant. Most varieties prefer well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0-7.5.
  • Maintenance: Consider the level of maintenance required when selecting a boxwood plant. Some varieties require regular pruning, while others require minimal maintenance.

FAQ

How often should I water my boxwood plant?

Boxwood plants require regular watering during their first year of growth. After that, they can tolerate some drought but still require occasional watering during dry spells.

When should I prune my boxwood plant?

Boxwood plants can be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. You can also prune lightly throughout the growing season to maintain its shape.

What pests and diseases affect boxwood plants?

Boxwood plants are susceptible to several pests and diseases such as leaf-miner, root rot, and blight. Regular inspection and treatment can prevent these issues from affecting your plant.

Can I use boxwood plants in containers?

Yes, small or dwarf varieties of boxwood plants can be grown in containers or pots. Make sure the container has adequate drainage holes and use well-draining soil.

In conclusion, choosing the right size of boxwood plant is crucial to creating a cohesive landscape design that complements your home’s architecture and meets your gardening needs. Consider the size of your garden, sunlight exposure, soil type, and maintenance requirements when selecting a boxwood plant variety that works best for you. With proper care and maintenance, these evergreen shrubs will bring beauty and structure to your outdoor space for years to come.

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