Winter Gem Boxwood for Sale Online

To maintain Winter Gem Boxwood in its most natural shape, thinning is the most appropriate way to prune for an informal look. Simply prune selected branches throughout the shrub down to the main. The older and diseased branches can be pruned to the ground. This method of pruning allows the center of the boxwood to receive light and air, improving the health of the shrub. Boxwoods have a tendency to become very dense, especially if it has been sheared over a long period of time. This not only can cause fungal diseases but also causes the leaves to grow just on the edges of the shrub. The inside of the boxwood then turns brown where leaves have died due to a lack of light. Thinning allows the leaves to grow along the entire branch, resulting in a fuller look. Thinning can be done at any time of the season until six weeks before the first frost when winter temperatures threaten the plant. The best time would be mid- to late February before new growth starts. This takes advantage of the first flush of growth, which is the best growth of the year.
For a formal look, prune with shears or hedge clippers in a pyramidal shape with the narrowest part of the bush at the top, tapering to a wider base. This shape will allow adequate light to reach the lower part of the shrub so the foliage will remain full all the way to the ground. To maintain desired size and shape, prune after boxwoods have completed their mainspring growth. For Boxwood Winter Gem as a hedge, begin pruning when the shrub is young rather than waiting several years until it has achieved a lot of growth. Pruning early causes the shrub to become thicker at the bottom rather than being thin or open at the base. Once it is dense enough at the base, pruning can be eased to prevent the death of the center leaves. When shearing, trim in one direction and then go back and trim the opposite way so that it’s top line is smooth and has no dips.

At times, very old and misshapen boxwoods are going to need a rejuvenation. Renewal or rejuvenation pruning of shrubs usually involves severe pruning. However, boxwoods often do not respond well to this. It may take several years for them to recover if they survive at all. If renewal pruning is to be tried, it should be done in late winter or early spring, over a period of several years. Some experts say you should remove a third of the large branches each year over three years. Another method is to prune over a two-year period. Branches would be cut on one side of the plant the first year, followed by the other half the second year. Follow any hard pruning and shaping of boxwoods with a dose of fertilizer and a light layer of mulch.

It is important to note that there is no such thing as a plant being  completely  deer proof. However, there are some, including the Winter Gem Boxwood, that are not as alluring to passing creatures. This boxwood is deer, rabbit, and pest resistant.

When planting in a border garden, leave 3 to 4 feet between the boxwoods. When creating a more condensed hedge, leave 2 to 3 feet of space.