Care Tips

• Planting Instructions: Dig a hole 2x as wide as the root ball and no deeper. Set the root flare at/just above grade, backfill with native soil, water to settle, and mulch 2-3" keeping mulch off the stems.
• Soil Moisture: Keep evenly moist but never waterlogged; about 1" of water per week the first growing season, then deep, infrequent watering once established.
• Soil Type: Well-drained loam or clay-loam; prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soil (pH ~6.5-7.5). Avoid poorly drained sites.
• Humidity: Average; ensure good air circulation and water at the base to keep foliage dry and reduce disease risk.
• Pruning Instructions: Shape lightly in late winter/early spring or after spring flush. A light shear in early summer maintains form. Avoid heavy pruning after late summer.
• Winter Care: Water deeply before ground freeze, apply 2-3" mulch, and shield from drying wind/sun with burlap screens in exposed Zone 4-5 sites. Avoid salt spray.
• Planting Depth: Set the top of the root ball 1-2" above surrounding grade; never bury the crown.
• Fertilization: In early spring, apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer for evergreens at label rates or top-dress with compost. Do not over-fertilize late in the season.
• Special Care: Monitor for boxwood leafminer, psyllid, mites, and boxwood blight. Sanitize tools, avoid overhead irrigation, and maintain spacing for airflow. Adjust acidic soils with garden lime as needed.