Boxwoods are a popular shrub in landscaping due to their evergreen foliage and versatility in shaping and pruning. However, there may come a time when you need to transplant your boxwoods to a new location. Whether you are moving to a new home or want to change the layout of your garden, transplanting boxwoods can be a daunting task.
Fortunately, there is expert advice available to guide you through the process. From when to transplant to how to prepare the roots, there are several key factors to consider when transplanting boxwoods. By following the right steps, you can successfully transplant your boxwoods without damaging the plant and ensure its survival in its new location. In this article, we will explore the best expert advice on transplanting boxwoods to help you achieve a successful transplant.
Why Transplant Boxwoods?
Boxwoods are popular shrubs that are known for their evergreen foliage and year-round beauty. They are commonly used in landscaping as hedges, borders, and foundation plantings. However, there are many reasons why someone might want to transplant their boxwoods to a new location. Here are a few:
Landscape Changes
Over time, the landscape around your boxwoods may change. Trees may grow taller, buildings may be constructed, or new structures may be added to your property. If your boxwoods are no longer in the right location, transplanting them can give them a new lease on life.
Soil Quality and Drainage
Boxwoods prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. If your current soil is heavy or compacted, transplanting your boxwoods to a new location with better soil can help them thrive.
Sun Exposure
Boxwoods prefer partial shade to full sun. If your boxwoods are currently in a location that is too shady or too sunny, transplanting them to a more suitable location can help them grow and thrive.
Aesthetic Reasons
Sometimes, you may simply want to change the look of your landscape. Transplanting your boxwoods to a new location can help you achieve the aesthetic you desire.
Overall, transplanting boxwoods can be a great way to give your plants a new lease on life and help them thrive in a new location. However, it’s important to do it correctly to ensure the health of your plants.
When to Transplant Boxwoods
Transplanting boxwoods is a delicate process that requires careful planning and execution. Timing is crucial to ensure the success of the transplant. In this section, we will discuss the best time for transplanting boxwoods and provide tips to help you achieve the best results.
Timing for Transplanting Boxwoods
The best time to transplant boxwoods is during their dormant season, which is in the fall or late winter, just before the spring growth begins. During these periods, the boxwood is less likely to experience transplant shock and can recover more quickly.
Transplanting boxwoods during the early fall is ideal because the plant will have enough time to establish a deep root system before winter hits. Plan a time when the temperature is cooler and there is more rainfall to help keep the soil moist. In contrast, transplanting boxwoods in late winter allows the plant to recover before the spring growth begins.
On the other hand, transplanting boxwoods during the spring growth can be risky as the plant is actively growing and may not recover as quickly. It is best to avoid transplanting boxwoods during the growing season if possible.
It is also important to consider the weather conditions when transplanting boxwoods. Avoid transplanting boxwoods during frost or when the ground is frozen. The ideal time to transplant boxwoods is when the soil is moist but not overly wet.
Here are some tips to help you determine the right time for transplanting boxwoods:
- Check the soil moisture content before transplanting. The soil should be moist but not overly wet.
- Avoid transplanting boxwoods during frost or when the ground is frozen.
- Plan the transplant during the plant’s dormant season, which is in the fall or late winter.
- Transplant boxwoods a few months before the ground freezes in early fall.
- Water the shrub thoroughly to a depth of 8 inches the day before transplanting.
By following these tips and transplanting boxwoods during the right time, you can ensure the success of the transplant and enjoy healthy, beautiful boxwoods in your garden.
Preparing to Transplant Boxwoods
Before transplanting boxwoods, it is important to properly prepare the plants and the transplant site. This will help ensure the success of the transplant and the health of the boxwoods in their new location. Here are some expert tips on how to prepare for transplanting boxwoods.
Expert Advice on Transplanting Boxwoods
Transplanting boxwoods can be a delicate process, and it is important to have the right expertise and preparation before attempting it. If you are not confident in your ability to transplant boxwoods, it is recommended to hire a professional landscaper who has experience with transplanting established boxwoods.
Special Equipment for Transplanting Boxwoods
Transplanting boxwoods may require special equipment such as a tree spade, which leaves a large ball of soil intact around the roots. This can be difficult for a homeowner to do without the proper tools. If you do not have access to special equipment, it is recommended to hire a professional landscaper who has the necessary tools to transplant boxwoods.
Digging Up Boxwoods
When digging up boxwoods, it is important to dig out enough of the rootball to ensure the health of the plant. Use a sharp spade to dig out a trench 4-6 inches wide and 8-10 inches deep all around the boxwood. The trench should be no closer than 6-8 inches from the trunk, depending on the plant’s size. Once you’ve dug that, start digging beneath the root ball, until you finally sever its connection to the soil.
Preparing the Transplant Site
Before transplanting boxwoods, it is important to prepare the transplant site. Choose a location that has good drainage and is in full sun to part shade. Make sure the soil is moist and organic, and add fertilizer if necessary. After planting, mulch the area around the boxwood to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
In conclusion, preparing to transplant boxwoods is a crucial step in the process. It is important to have the right expertise, preparation, and equipment to ensure the success of the transplant and the health of the boxwoods in their new location.
Transplanting Boxwoods
Transplanting boxwoods can be a challenging task, but with proper preparation and care, it can be done successfully. Here are some expert tips on how to transplant boxwoods.
Transplanting Boxwoods: Step-by-Step
Before you start digging up your boxwoods, make sure you have the right tools for the job. You will need a sharp spade, a shovel, and a wheelbarrow. Here are the steps to follow:
- Water the boxwoods thoroughly a day before transplanting. This will help the roots stay moist during the transplanting process.
- Dig a trench around the boxwood, about 6-8 inches from the trunk, depending on the size of the plant. Make sure the trench is deep enough to get under the root ball.
- Start digging beneath the root ball, cutting through any roots that are in your way. Use your shovel to lift the root ball out of the ground and onto a tarp or into your wheelbarrow.
- Move the boxwood to its new location and dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
- Place the boxwood in the hole and backfill with soil, making sure to tamp it down firmly around the root ball.
- Water the boxwood thoroughly after transplanting.
Watering and Fertilizing Transplanted Boxwoods
After transplanting, it is important to keep the boxwood well-watered until it becomes established in its new location. Water deeply once a week, or more often if the weather is hot and dry. Avoid overwatering, as boxwoods prefer well-drained soil.
You can fertilize your transplanted boxwoods with an organic fertilizer in the spring, after the new growth has emerged. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for the correct amount to use.
Pruning Transplanted Boxwoods
It is best to wait at least a year after transplanting before pruning your boxwoods. This will give the plant time to become established and recover from the transplant shock. When you do prune, use sharp, clean shears and avoid shearing the boxwood into unnatural shapes. Instead, use hand pruners to selectively remove any dead or diseased branches, or to thin out the interior of the plant to encourage new growth.
In conclusion, transplanting boxwoods can be a challenging task, but with proper preparation and care, it can be done successfully. By following the steps outlined above, you can help your boxwoods thrive in their new location.
Maintaining Transplanted Boxwoods
After successfully transplanting boxwoods, it is important to maintain them properly to ensure their continued health and growth. This section will cover some important tips for maintaining transplanted boxwoods.
Boxwood Blight and Other Pests and Diseases
One of the biggest threats to boxwoods is boxwood blight, a fungal disease that can cause severe defoliation and even death of the plant. To prevent boxwood blight and other pests and diseases, it is important to keep the plants healthy and well-maintained. This includes regular pruning to remove dead or diseased branches, as well as providing adequate moisture and drainage.
Watering and Fertilizing Established Boxwoods
Established boxwoods do not require frequent watering, but they do need to be watered deeply and infrequently. Watering once a week, providing one inch of water, is usually sufficient. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other problems. In terms of fertilization, boxwoods benefit from an organic fertilizer in the spring and fall.
Pruning Established Boxwoods
Pruning is an important part of maintaining established boxwoods. Shearing should be done in the late spring or early summer, and pruning to remove dead or diseased branches can be done at any time. It is important to avoid pruning during the fall, as this can stimulate new growth that will not have time to harden off before winter.
Varieties of Boxwoods
There are many varieties of boxwoods available, including the American boxwood and English boxwood. Some popular cultivars include ‘Green Velvet’, ‘Wintergreen’, and ‘Green Mountain’. Boxwoods are evergreen and low maintenance, making them a popular choice for landscapes.
In conclusion, maintaining transplanted boxwoods requires attention to proper watering, fertilization, pruning, and disease prevention. By following these tips and choosing the right varieties of boxwoods, you can enjoy healthy and beautiful plants in your landscape.
