How Long to Water New Boxwood Planting

Boxwoods are evergreen shrubs that add structure and form to gardens and landscapes. These sturdy plants thrive in a variety of growing conditions and are ideal for use as hedges, topiaries, and foundation plantings. If you've recently planted boxwoods, you might be wondering how long you should water them to ensure their survival and health. Here's what you need to know.

Watering New Boxwood Plantings

While boxwoods are relatively drought-tolerant once established, newly planted shrubs need regular watering for the first year of growth. The key to watering boxwoods is to provide enough moisture to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems, while under-watering can stress the plants and inhibit growth.

When you plant boxwoods, it's essential to water them deeply and thoroughly. This means saturating the soil around the roots until the water begins to puddle on the surface. You can use a garden hose or watering can to do this, but be sure to water slowly and evenly to allow the water to penetrate the soil. Once you've watered the soil well, allow it to drain before moving on.

For the first week after planting, you should water your boxwoods every day or two to keep the soil evenly moist. After the first week, you can reduce the watering frequency to every three to four days, depending on the weather conditions. Be sure to check the soil regularly to ensure it remains moist but not overly wet.

Watering Boxwoods During Drought Conditions

During periods of drought or hot weather, boxwoods may require more frequent watering to stay healthy. If the soil around your plants is dry to the touch, it's time to water. Depending on the severity of the drought, you may need to water your boxwoods every day or every other day to prevent stress and damage.

One way to help conserve moisture in the soil is to apply a layer of mulch around the base of your boxwoods (but be sure not to mound the mulch against the stems). Mulch can help retain moisture, insulate the roots from extreme temperatures, and suppress weeds.

Signs of Overwatering and Underwatering

If you're unsure how often to water your boxwoods, look for signs that the plants are getting too much or too little moisture. Signs of overwatering include yellowing of the leaves, root rot, and a foul odor coming from the soil. Signs of underwatering may include wilting, browning of the leaves, and stunted growth.

If you notice any of these symptoms, adjust your watering schedule accordingly. In general, it's better to underwater than overwater boxwoods, as these plants are very sensitive to root rot and other moisture-related problems.

Conclusion

Watering new boxwood plantings is essential to ensuring their health and survival. These versatile shrubs require regular watering for the first year of growth, but be careful not to overwater or underwater them. Check the soil regularly for moisture content and adjust your watering schedule as needed. With the right care, your boxwoods will thrive and add beauty to your landscape for many years to come.