Introduction

Boxwood shrubs are a popular choice for landscaping due to their evergreen foliage, compact growth habit, and ability to be shaped into a variety of forms. However, when newly planted, boxwood shrubs require extra care to ensure they establish properly. One aspect of this care is determining the correct watering schedule. In this article, we will discuss how often to water newly planted boxwood shrubs to help ensure their health and vitality.

Understanding Boxwood Shrubs

Boxwood shrubs are native to Europe, Asia, and Africa, but are commonly used in landscaping throughout North America. They prefer well-drained soil, a neutral pH, and full to partial sun exposure. When choosing a spot to plant boxwood shrubs, make sure the location provides adequate drainage and air circulation, as these are crucial to their overall health.

Watering Newly Planted Boxwood Shrubs

When first planted, boxwood shrubs need to be watered frequently to help them establish their root system. Watering should be done deeply, so that the soil around the plant is thoroughly moistened. However, it's important not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot and other issues.

A good rule of thumb is to water the shrubs every one to two days for the first week after planting. After that, the frequency can be reduced to twice a week for the next two weeks. By the fourth week, the shrubs should be established enough to only require watering once a week. This schedule can be adjusted based on environmental factors such as temperature and rainfall, but it provides a good starting point for establishing healthy boxwood shrubs.

Signs of Overwatering or Underwatering

It's important to monitor your newly planted boxwood shrubs for signs of overwatering or underwatering. Overwatering can lead to yellowing leaves, root rot, and other issues. Underwatering can cause wilting, browning of the leaves, and stunted growth.

If you suspect that your boxwood shrubs are being over or underwatered, adjust your watering schedule accordingly. It's important to note that these shrubs are sensitive to dry soil, so it's better to slightly overwater than to underwater. However, be careful not to water too much, as this can lead to the problems mentioned above.

Tips for Proper Watering

Here are some additional tips for watering your newly planted boxwood shrubs:

Water in the morning or evening when the sun is not at its strongest.

Water directly at the base of the shrub, avoiding the foliage as much as possible.

Use a slow, steady stream of water to ensure the soil is thoroughly moistened.

If you have sandy soil, you may need to water more frequently. If you have clay soil, you may need to water less frequently.

Consider using a drip irrigation system or soaker hoses to ensure efficient and thorough watering.

Conclusion

Proper watering is essential to establishing healthy boxwood shrubs. When newly planted, these shrubs require frequent watering to help establish a strong root system. As they become more established, the watering frequency can be reduced. By monitoring for signs of over or underwatering and following the tips outlined in this article, you can help ensure the success of your newly planted boxwood shrubs.