Green Velvet Boxwood

The Green Velvet Boxwood (Buxus ‘Green Velvet”) is a medium size evergreen shrub that grow in a wide range of temperatures and sun. They can grow from zones 5-8, and can tolerate full sun to almost full shade depending on where you are located. In full sun locations, you may notice more bronzing during the winter months or possibly sun scorch during the summer. A little dappled shade can prevent this from happening in most cases. These plants are slow growers only reaching 4-6’ tall and 3-5’ wide. They prefer moist, well draining, slightly acidic soil conditions but can tolerate some drought once established.

Location: Choose a location where your Green Velvet boxwood will receive full or partial sunlight.  If you live in an area that gets very hot, they will do best when given some afternoon shade. To avoid winter bronzing, plant your boxwood in an area where it will be protected from harsh winter winds, preferably close to a building. Well draining soil is a must and they perform best when pH levels are between 6.5 and 7. To create a hedge, plant your boxwoods 4 feet apart, otherwise plant them 6-8 feet apart to create a more spaced look.

Planting Instructions:
1) Dig a hole the same depth as the root ball and twice as wide.
2) Place the boxwood upright into the hole ensuring it is straight and begin to back fill the hole. Watering every couple inches to prevent air pockets from forming.
3) Once the hole is completely filled, gently pat down the soil and give your plant a deep watering.
4) To help retain moisture in the soil and deter weed growth, apply a 2-3 inch deep layer of mulch around the base of the boxwood extending 12 inches past the foliage. Make sure that the mulch is 2-3 inches away from the trunk of the plant. If it is touching the boxwood then rot and fungus may set in.

Watering: Water the Green Velvet Boxwood deeply to ensure the roots are getting adequate moisture. The soil should stay moist but not saturated as this can lead to root rot. Once it has established it will need a weekly watering during periods of drought or extreme heat.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced shrub fertilizer formula such as 10-10-10 in Spring before the start of new growth. Avoid applying fertilizer within 6 inches from the main stem of the boxwood to prevent root burn.

Pruning: These can be pruned in a rounded shape or allowed to grow naturally. Pruning should only be done after any danger of frost has passed in the spring.

Pests: Although the Green Velvet Boxwood is virtually pest and disease resistant, boxwood leaf miner is possible. Yellowing foliage can be a sign of this and should be treated with a horticultural oil or insecticide spray.