How to Trim Boxwoods: Expert Tips for Pruning

How to Trim Boxwoods?

To trim boxwoods, it is best to avoid shearing and opt for thinning instead.

Shearing can lead to weak plants and make them more vulnerable to pests and diseases.

Thinning allows sunlight to reach the center of the plant, promoting dense and leafy branches.

This can be done selectively using handheld pruning shears to cut back too tall branches to a larger branch or the base of the plant.

When dealing with overgrown shrubs, follow the one-third rule and never remove more than one-third of the plant’s mass at a time.

Depending on the desired size, pruning may need to be done over the course of two to three years.

It is important to keep pruning tools clean, especially if there is a risk of boxwood blight.

Clean tools with a 70% alcohol solution before and after pruning sessions.

Key Points:

  • Avoid shearing and opt for thinning boxwoods to prevent weak plants and vulnerability to pests and diseases.
  • Thinning promotes dense and leafy branches by allowing sunlight to reach the center of the plant.
  • Use handheld pruning shears to selectively cut back too tall branches to a larger branch or the base of the plant.
  • Follow the one-third rule when dealing with overgrown shrubs, never removing more than one-third of the plant’s mass at a time.
  • Pruning may need to be done over two to three years to achieve the desired size.
  • Keep pruning tools clean, especially to prevent boxwood blight, using a 70% alcohol solution before and after pruning sessions.


Did You Know?

1. In ancient Rome, boxwood branches were commonly used as toothbrushes due to their natural antimicrobial properties, promoting oral hygiene among the upper class.

2. The term “boxwood” is derived from the Old English word “box,” meaning “tree.” The wood was highly valued for making intricate woodwork and musical instruments, such as flutes and clarinets.

3. Boxwood leaves secrete a chemical compound called “boxol,” which acts as a natural insect repellent. This is why boxwoods are rarely infested by pests like aphids, mites, or scale insects.

4. During the Renaissance, boxwood was a favored material for creating intricate, miniature religious sculptures known as “rosaries.” These ornate carvings often featured scenes from the life of Christ and were highly cherished by devout Catholics.

5. The oldest existing boxwood topiary is believed to be the “D’Anghiari English Yew,” created in 1680 and currently located in Tuscany, Italy. This 40-foot tall sculpture, resembling a giant chess piece, is a testament to the longevity and artistry associated with boxwood manipulation.

Proper Tools For Pruning Boxwood

Pruning boxwood shrubs can be a daunting task for many, as there is often a fear of causing damage to these evergreen plants. However, with the right tools and techniques, you can ensure that your boxwood shrubs are properly trimmed without compromising their health and aesthetic appeal.

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When it comes to pruning boxwood, the use of sharp handheld pruning shears is highly recommended. These shears allow for precise cuts, minimizing the risk of tearing or damaging the branches. It is important to invest in high-quality pruning shears that are specifically designed for cutting shrubs.

For larger and overgrown boxwood, a folding handsaw can come in handy. This tool allows for more substantial cuts and is ideal for removing thicker branches. By using the appropriate tools, you can effectively prune your boxwood shrubs and promote their healthy growth.

Best Time Of Year To Prune Boxwood

Timing is crucial when it comes to pruning boxwood shrubs. The ideal time to prune boxwood is in the spring when the plants are exiting their dormancy phase. Pruning during this time encourages new growth and helps shape the shrubs.

On the other hand, pruning boxwood in late summer or fall can be detrimental to the plants. Pruning during this period can lead to damage or even death of the shrubs during the winter months. It is best to avoid pruning boxwood during these seasons and stick to springtime pruning routine.

It is important to note that before beginning the pruning process, dead, damaged, or diseased branches should be removed. This ensures that the shrub’s overall health is not compromised. Taking these precautions and pruning in the appropriate season will help you achieve the best results for your boxwood shrubs.

    • Prune boxwood in the spring
    • Avoid late summer or fall pruning
    • Remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches for the overall health of the shrub.

Preventing Damage From Shearing

Many people find shearing to be a convenient method for trimming their boxwood shrubs. However, it is important to note that shearing can negatively impact the long-term health of the plants. Repeated shearing results in the formation of a thick layer of green growth on the outer surface of the boxwood, while the interior becomes bare and lifeless.

In addition to the unappealing aesthetic of this unnatural growth pattern, shearing can weaken the plants, making them more vulnerable to pests and diseases. It is advisable to consider an alternative method known as thinning, which can be a more effective approach in preventing damage caused by shearing.

To encourage healthy growth and maintain the natural form of the shrubs, thinning involves selectively removing branches from the interior of the boxwood. This allows for improved airflow and light penetration, promoting a balanced growth that is resistant to common issues like pests and diseases.

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In summary:

  • Shearing creates an unnatural and unattractive appearance by forming a shell of green growth on the outside, leaving the inside bare and lifeless.
  • Sheared boxwood plants are more prone to weakness, pests, and diseases.
  • Thinning is a recommended alternative to shearing for maintaining the health and appearance of boxwood shrubs.
  • Thinning involves selectively removing branches from the interior of the shrub to promote balanced growth that is resistant to pests and diseases.

Thinning For Healthy Boxwood Shrubs

Thinning is an effective method for pruning boxwood shrubs as it promotes dense and leafy growth while allowing sunlight to reach the center of the plant. This technique involves selectively cutting back too tall branches to a larger branch or the base of the plant.

Thinning may be more time-consuming compared to shearing, but it yields better results for creating a healthy and long-lived boxwood of the desired size. By removing selected branches, the overall shape and density of the shrub can be improved, resulting in a more visually appealing appearance.

Following The One-Third Rule For Overgrown Shrubs

If your boxwood shrubs have become overgrown, it is important to follow the one-third rule when pruning. This rule states that you should never remove more than one-third of the plant’s mass at a time. Removing excessive foliage in one pruning session can shock the plants and hinder their recovery.

Depending on the desired size, pruning overgrown shrubs may need to be done gradually over the course of two to three years. Each year, one-third of the plant’s growth can be removed until the desired size is achieved. This approach allows the shrubs to reestablish their shape and recover properly.

Cleaning Pruning Tools For Boxwood Blight Prevention

Keeping your pruning tools clean is essential, especially if boxwood blight is prevalent in your area. Boxwood blight is a fungal disease that can rapidly spread through contaminated tools. In order to prevent the spread of this disease, it is important to clean your pruning tools before and after each pruning session.

A 70% alcohol solution is an effective way to disinfect your tools. Simply dip a clean cloth or paper towel into the solution and wipe down the blades of your pruning shears and handsaw. This simple step will help safeguard the health of your boxwood shrubs and prevent the spread of disease.

Note: Regularly cleaning and disinfecting your pruning tools is crucial to maintain the health of your boxwood shrubs and prevent the spread of boxwood blight.

To ensure the health and longevity of your boxwood shrubs, consider following these techniques and using the right tools:

  • Use sharp handheld pruning shears for precise cuts.
  • Prune boxwood shrubs in the spring for optimal growth.
  • Avoid shearing as it can result in dense growth and inhibit airflow.
  • Opt for thinning methods to remove select branches and improve overall appearance.
  • Follow the one-third rule for overgrown shrubs, meaning don’t remove more than a third of the plant at once.
  • Regularly clean your pruning tools to prevent the spread of disease.
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So go ahead, grab your pruning shears, and give your boxwood shrubs the attention they deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should boxwoods be pruned?

The optimal time to prune boxwoods for shaping purposes is during the early spring. This period allows for rejuvenation and promotes healthy growth throughout the upcoming season. However, if you simply need to remove stray branches or perform thinning cuts, these maintenance tasks can be carried out at any point during the growing season without compromising the overall health of the boxwood.

How do you trim boxwoods to look natural?

To achieve a natural look when trimming boxwoods, it is crucial to keep in mind the importance of sunlight for foliage production. To achieve the desired effect, it is recommended to use handheld pruning shears to thin out the boxwood. Carefully select and cut back any branches that are growing too tall, either to a larger branch or to the base of the plant. By working with one branch or a cluster of branches at a time, you can achieve a visually appealing shrub that maintains a natural appearance.

Will boxwood grow back after pruning?

Boxwood plants have the remarkable ability to regrow from bare old wood, although the rejuvenation process may be slower. When pruning boxwood, it is best to make cuts in areas where active growth is present to encourage quicker recovery. Additionally, the renovation process presents an opportune moment to remove any lifeless, harmed, or infected branches, further boosting the plant’s health and vitality.

Can boxwood be trimmed anytime?

Boxwoods are generally tolerant of pruning and can be trimmed throughout most of the year, with the exception of late summer and early fall. Pruning during these periods can stimulate new growth that may not have enough time to fully establish before the arrival of winter’s freezing temperatures, potentially leading to the death of the shrub. It is, therefore, advisable to avoid severe late summer pruning followed by a cold winter to ensure the survival and health of boxwoods.

References: 1, 2, 3, 4

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