The boxwood originally comes from the Mediterranean region, but has also been cultivated in Central Europe for centuries. The evergreen plant is winter-proof and frost-hardy, although some varieties are much more sensitive.
How should you treat the boxwood in winter?
Boxwood is hardy and can be left in the garden. Stop fertilizing until July and prune until September. Water and mulch regularly in winter. The pot needs winter protection through insulation and garden fleece; place it in a semi-shady place and water on frost-free days.
Boxwood is hardy
Since boxwood is insensitive to frost, you can safely leave it in the garden in winter. Only the colorful leafy varieties such as 'Elegantissima' are more sensitive and should only be cultivated in the garden in mild winter locations and with winter protection. But whether green or colorful boxwood varieties, you have to pay attention to these points:
- stop fertilization by July at the latest
- prune boxwood no later than September
- both stimulate shoot growth, which is bad shortly before winter
- Boxwood needs water even in winter
- water regularly in dry and frost-free phases
- Mulch boxwood to retain moisture in the soil
In March at the latest, you should cut back the boxwood on a frost-free day with an overcast sky and then fertilize it with ripe compost and horn shavings so that the plant can develop strong new shoots.
Boxwood in a pot needs winter protection
Although boxwood is hardy, it needs winter protection when grown in pots. This is necessary because the small amount of substrate in the planter cannot adequately protect the roots from frost. As a result, the roots freeze and the plant dies. You can overwinter the potted bush in a bright and cool (maximum 10 °C) room frost-free, but you can also leave it outside wrapped up to protect it from frost:
- Place the pot on an insulating surface, such as a Styrofoam plate.
- Place it against a house wall, do not place it in direct sun.
- A semi-shaded place or one in light shade is ideal.
- Wrap the planter with gardening fleece (€7.00 on Amazon) or another suitable material.
- Don't forget to water the boxwood regularly on frost-free days!
Tip
During spring budding, pay particular attention to any frost damage that occurs due to dryness in winter and often only becomes apparent months later. Cut back the frozen shoots, otherwise fungal diseases can take root.
