Transplanting a Buxus Plant

Transplanting a Buxus Plant

Being a rebuild in Christchurch we lifted, relocated and replanted to our new garden, all of our Buxus Sempervirens hedging on the same site. Over the summer some of the Buxus hedging have turned from a lush green to a rusty, orange colour, a few have died off. Can you tell us why this is happening and how to rectify this problem?

It is quite likely that a combination of factors has led to the problems you have experienced with your transplanted Buxus Sempervirens. Firstly, there is what is termed “transplanting shock”. While Buxus can usually be successfully transplanted, if the young feeding roots dry out before the plant has become re-established, the foliage will often turn yellow, and then bronze.

Secondly, if the plants become deficient in nutrients, especially nitrogen, the foliage will slowly turn from dark green to matte green, and then eventually to bronze.

Thirdly, while Buxus plants do not requires excessive watering, if they become dry over summer they will display the symptoms you describe. Do not be disheartened! Commence applications of a good quality, mostly nitrogen fertiliser such as Controlled Daltons Goldcote Landscape and Garden in mid-October and continue applying through to mid-December. Sheep pellets placed near the base of Buxus plants will also help promote strong growth and deep green coloured foliage.

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