Yellowing leaves on My Boxwood? - Ask Extension
What could be causing the yellowing leaves on my boxwood?
Knowledgebase
Yellowing leaves on My Boxwood? #862395
Asked March 24, 2024, 3:20 PM EDT
What could be causing the yellowing leaves on my boxwood?
Wood County Ohio
Expert Response
Jan
There are several reasons for boxwoods to show yellow/dying leaves.
A common cause in the late winter/early spring is winter burn due to cold winter winds, ice, and cold. You can minimize winter damage by erecting a wind protection around the bush in late fall, e.g., wrapping in burlap. A thick layer of mulch around boxwoods can also keep the root warmer.
Boxwoods are also susceptible to a growing number of pests. If you suspect insect damage, you should treat immediately. A relatively new and serious problem is the fungal disease called boxwood blight. The links below give some information.
https://bygl.osu.edu/node/1359
https://bygl.osu.edu/index.php/node/2198
Salt used for sidewalks and roadways can also cause damage to boxwoods. In this case, parts of the boxwood closest to walking surfaces should show the worst damage.
Root rot is another possibility. Boxwoods are very sensitive to excess amounts of water. The roots can be damaged when exposed to too much water, and the bush cannot absorb nutrients from the soil. The best way to solve this problem is to add a layer of sand or peat moss to the ground. Note, boxwoods should be planted in a well-drained area in light, fertile soil. Avoid depressions where water can collect.
Another possibility is damage from dog urine. Yellowed areas that are circular and relatively low to the ground can indicate this issue.
I hope this information is helpful.
Roxanne
There are several reasons for boxwoods to show yellow/dying leaves.
A common cause in the late winter/early spring is winter burn due to cold winter winds, ice, and cold. You can minimize winter damage by erecting a wind protection around the bush in late fall, e.g., wrapping in burlap. A thick layer of mulch around boxwoods can also keep the root warmer.
Boxwoods are also susceptible to a growing number of pests. If you suspect insect damage, you should treat immediately. A relatively new and serious problem is the fungal disease called boxwood blight. The links below give some information.
https://bygl.osu.edu/node/1359
https://bygl.osu.edu/index.php/node/2198
Salt used for sidewalks and roadways can also cause damage to boxwoods. In this case, parts of the boxwood closest to walking surfaces should show the worst damage.
Root rot is another possibility. Boxwoods are very sensitive to excess amounts of water. The roots can be damaged when exposed to too much water, and the bush cannot absorb nutrients from the soil. The best way to solve this problem is to add a layer of sand or peat moss to the ground. Note, boxwoods should be planted in a well-drained area in light, fertile soil. Avoid depressions where water can collect.
Another possibility is damage from dog urine. Yellowed areas that are circular and relatively low to the ground can indicate this issue.
I hope this information is helpful.
Roxanne
