As a gardening and landscaping expert , I have had spate of experience with boxwoods , include the popular ‘ Winter Gem ’ variety . While boxwood are generally beloved for their evergreen foliage and versatility in various landscape designs , they do have a few disadvantage that you should consider before including them in your garden .
1 . Susceptibility to disease : Boxwoods are prone to several disease , including boxwood blight and ascendent decomposition . Boxwood blight is a fungal disease that can chop-chop broadcast and cause defoliation and death of the plant . Root decomposition , on the other hand , is cause by too wet soil conditions and can lead to root decay and plant decay . These diseases can be challenge to manipulate and may command the use of antimycotic or other direction strategy .
2 . worm infestations : Boxwoods can also be susceptible to various dirt ball pests , such as boxwood leafminer , jot , and psyllids . These pests can do leaf price , defoliation , and overall decline of the plant . even monitoring and timely insecticide applications may be necessary to foreclose or control these plague .
3 . modified tolerance to uttermost temperature : While box are more often than not hardy plant , they have limited tolerance to extreme temperature . Extreme low temperature or hotness can cause tension and damage to the plants , particularly if they are not adequately protected or if they are get out of doors of their recommend hardiness zone . It is of import to opt boxwood varieties that are well - befit to your specific climate conditions .
4 . Slow ontogenesis rate : Boxwoods are known for their slow growth rate , which can be a disadvantage if you are search for quick results or significant plant size . It may take several yr for boxwood to extend to their mature sizing , and veritable pruning may be necessary to maintain the desired shape and size .
5 . Potential for size of it limitations : While the ‘ Winter Gem ’ box is considered a compact variety , some boxwood coinage can grow quite big if not decent pruned and maintained . This can be a disadvantage if you have limited distance or if you are looking for a low - sustenance plant that does not require frequent pruning .
6 . price : Turkish boxwood , including the ‘ Winter Gem ’ miscellanea , can be relatively expensive equate to other shrubs . This price can add up , peculiarly if you are plan to use them in magnanimous measure or for extended landscaping projects . It is important to think the overall budget for your garden before endow in boxwoods .
Despite these disadvantages , Turkish boxwood remain a democratic choice for many gardener and landscaper due to their twelvemonth - round of drinks greenery , versatility , and classic appealingness . With right guardianship , maintenance , and monitoring for likely issues , boxwoods can thrive and add beauty to your landscape .
Caroline Bates
