If you’re looking for a classic, elegant shrub that’s both tough and beautiful, you’ve made a great choice. Learning how to plant Japanese Boxwood is the first step to adding structure and year-round color to your garden. These versatile plants are perfect for hedges, borders, or simple foundation plantings. With the right start, they’ll thrive for years with minimal fuss.
How To Plant Japanese Boxwood
This guide walks you through the entire process, from picking the perfect plant to giving it the best care after planting. Let’s get your hands dirty.
Why Choose Japanese Boxwood?
Japanese Boxwood (Buxus microphylla var. japonica) is a favorite for good reason. It’s more heat-tolerant and faster-growing than some other boxwood varieties. Its small, glossy green leaves stay on the plant all winter. It responds very well to pruning, making it ideal for formal shapes. It’s also generally more resistant to boxwood blight than other types, which is a big plus for gardeners.
What You’ll Need to Get Started
Gathering your tools and materials beforehand makes the job smooth and easy. Here’s your checklist:
- A healthy Japanese Boxwood shrub (from a reputable nursery)
- Shovel and garden spade
- Measuring tape or stick
- Quality compost or aged manure
- Mulch (like pine bark or shredded hardwood)
- A hose or watering can
- Gardening gloves (optional, but recommended)
Step-by-Step Planting Instructions
Follow these steps for the best results. Timing is key, so aim for early spring or early fall. This gives the roots time to establish without the stress of extreme heat or cold.
Step 1: Choose the Right Location
Japanese Boxwood prefers partial sun to partial shade. In hotter climates, afternoon shade is beneficial to prevent leaf scorch. They can handle full sun if needed, but may require more water. Ensure the site has well-drained soil; they don’t like “wet feet.” Avoid low spots where water collects.
Step 2: Prepare the Planting Hole
This is the most important step for root health. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of your shrub. The depth should be exactly the same height as the root ball. You want the top of the root ball to be level with the surrounding ground. Do not plant it to deep.
Step 3: Amend the Soil
Mix the soil you removed from the hole with about 25% compost. This improves drainage and provides nutrients. Break up any large clumps. If your soil is very heavy clay, consider adding some coarse sand to the mix.
Step 4: Remove the Plant and Loosen Roots
Gently remove the shrub from its container. If the roots are circling tightly around the root ball, gently tease them apart with your fingers. This encourages them to grow outward into the new soil. For very pot-bound plants, you can make a few shallow slices down the sides of the root ball.
Step 5: Position and Backfill
Place the shrub in the center of the hole. Ensure it’s standing up straight. Begin backfilling with your soil-compost mix, firming it gently around the roots as you go to eliminate large air pockets. Stop when the hole is about half full.
Step 6: Water and Finish Filling
Water the half-filled hole thoroughly. This helps settle the soil around the roots. Once the water has drained, finish filling the hole with the remaining soil. Create a shallow basin around the plant to help catch water. Give it another deep watering to settle everything completely.
Step 7: Apply Mulch
Spread 2-3 inches of mulch around the base of the plant. Keep the mulch a couple inches away from the main stem to prevent rot. Mulch is crucial—it retains moisture, suppresses weeds, and regulates soil temperature.
Caring for Your Newly Planted Boxwood
Your job isn’t quite done after planting. Consistent care in the first year sets your boxwood up for long-term success.
Watering Schedule
Watering is critical. For the first growing season, water deeply 2-3 times per week, depending on rainfall. The goal is to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. After the first year, established boxwoods are quite drought-tolerant but will appreciate water during dry spells.
Fertilizing Basics
Wait until the second spring to fertilize. Use a balanced, slow-release shrub fertilizer or an organic option like compost tea. Apply it in early spring as new growth begins. Avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall, as this can promote tender new growth that may be damaged by frost.
Pruning and Shaping
You can do a light pruning after planting to shape the shrub, but major shaping should wait until it’s established. The best time to prune is in late spring after the new growth has emerged. You can do a second, lighter trim in mid-summer if needed. Always use clean, sharp tools.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Even with great care, you might encounter an issue. Here’s what to look for:
- Yellowing Leaves: Often a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Check that soil isn’t staying soggy.
- Bronze Winter Color: This is normal in cold winters. The leaves will green up again in spring.
- Leaf Spot or Blight: Look for dark spots or defoliation. Improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and remove affected leaves. Choose resistant varieties to prevent this.
- Pests: Watch for boxwood leafminer or psyllids. Insecticidal soap or horticultural oil can manage most infestations if caught early.
FAQ: Your Boxwood Questions Answered
How far apart should I plant Japanese Boxwood for a hedge?
For a dense hedge, space plants 1.5 to 2 feet apart, center to center. If you want them to grow more individually, space them 3 feet or more apart.
Can I plant boxwood in full shade?
They can survive in full shade, but growth will be very slow and the foliage may become sparse. Partial sun is much better for a healthy, dense plant.
How fast do they grow?
Japanese Boxwood is considered a moderate grower. You can expect about 3-6 inches of new growth per year under good conditions. This makes them easier to maintain than some faster growers.
When is the best time of year to plant boxwood shrubs?
Early fall is ideal, giving roots time to grow in cool soil. Early spring is the next best option. Avoid planting in the heat of summer or the frozen ground of winter.
Are the roots of boxwood invasive?
No, boxwood roots are not invasive. They form a dense, fibrous root system that stays relatively close to the plant. They are safe to plant near foundations and walkways.
Planting Japanese Boxwood is a straightforward project that pays off for decades. By choosing a good spot, planting correctly, and providing attentive follow-up care, you’ll have a beautiful, resilient shrub that adds timeless appeal to your landscape. Remember, the effort you put in during the first year makes all the difference for a healthy, thriving plant.