Re: boxwood

I grow several varieties,maybe 10-12, of boxwood {zone5b} though we have had
-26F. couple years ago. I happen to live near places named Sandyville, Sandy
Township and the like, we are well drained. I have been told the varieties
with Green in the name are hardier. Green Mountain, Green Velvet, Green Gem,
Green Pillow, slow  compact. I have two English boxwood and they have done
very well even in -26 for me.  I top dress them twice a year with well rotted
horse manure and sawdust or goat manure. Do not prune after July so new
growth will harden before winter. My pruning is done at Christmas.
My all time favorite variety is Vic Reis named for an Ohio horticulturist.
Small dark green shiny leaves, on tight shrubs. Needs minimum pruning. Can
grow to 4' x 4' or a little more. Have a  20' row along our concrete drive
some in full sun, some if near full shade all planted in former gravel drive
edge. Dry dry dry! They are beautiful and all that see them are impressed. If
any one is interested my friend usually takes cuttings to root and sell at a
local historic home and museum.
Boxwood has a chemical toxic to deer in its leaves, but if a herd of deer,
cattle or dogs frequent you boxwood patch the damage from rowdiness could be
disfiguring. Dog urine will kill foliage. When pruning place old sheet or
tarp around shrub to collect clippings if left to lay on mulch they will look
bad when then turn their whitish tan color on the mulch.
If you need lots of plants try buying small ones from propagation nurseries
they will be retail size quicker than you know. They can be lined out,
transplanting is very safe most any time. Must be well drained.
stuff2love
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