How to Care for Green Velvet Boxwood
- 1). Plant the Green Velvet boxwood in well-draining soil with partial shade exposure and soil pH between 6.2 and 7.0. Ensure the top 1/8-inch of the root ball falls above the soil line. Avoid planting it near the corner of your house or other spots exposed to strong winds and cold temperatures. Space multiple shrubs 3 feet apart if growing a hedge.
- 2). Provide the Green Velvet boxwood 1 to 1 1/2 inches of water every week during the first two years. Once established, the evergreen plant becomes moderately drought tolerant and withstands infrequent watering.
- 3). Spread 2 to 3 inches of organic mulch around the base of the boxwood shrub to keep its root cool, retain soil moisture and prevent weeds from infiltrating the planting site.
- 4). Pinch stem tips or shear new growth of newly planted Green Velvet boxwood several times during the first two years to encourage branching and dense growth. Prune the evergreen shrub in June to invigorate growth and shape the plant. Use sharp and sterilized pruning shears to remove dead, damaged and wayward stems. Cut several branches near the base of the plant to improve sunlight penetration and air circulation to its interior.
- 5). Feed the plant a well-balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer in early spring, just before new growth starts. Follow label directions for dosage rates based on the size of the plant. If required, fertilize the plant again in early to mid July. Avoid fertilizing the plant in late summer, as it encourages new growth susceptible to winter or frost damage.
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