A guide to prevention and treatment for your beloved boxwoods
Boxwoods stand as timeless, elegant features. However, the threat of boxwood blight can cast a shadow over these cherished plants. Boxwood blight poses a serious risk to the health and visual aesthetics of your boxwoods. Recognizing the signs and implementing proactive measures are crucial steps in preserving these iconic evergreens.
Let’s delve into effective strategies for prevention and treatment against boxwood blight.
What is boxwood blight?
Boxwood blight is a fungal disease that can lead to rapid defoliation and a decline of infected boxwoods.
How can I tell if my boxwoods are suffering from boxwood blight?
Common signs of blight include dark streaks on leaves, defoliation and characteristic black streaking on stems.
What can I do if I think my boxwoods have blight?
We recommend pruning the affecting areas with precision. Remove infected plant material promptly and be sure to disinfect your pruning tools between cuts to prevent cross-contamination. Dispose of infected material away from healthy plants. Consider pruning during dry periods to minimize disease spread.
How do I prevent further boxwood blight?
We strongly recommend considering the strategic use of one of our fungicide applications as a preventative measure. We spray hundreds of customers’ boxwoods annually to prevent boxwood blight. Get in touch with one of our ISA-certified arborists to determine the right fungicide and application schedule based on the specific needs of your boxwoods.
We also strongly encourage you to stay proactive with regular inspections. Periodically assess your boxwoods, especially during vulnerable times such as periods of high humidity or excessive rainfall. Early detection enables timely action. Not sure what you're looking for? Read more about our Tree Maintenance Program to schedule a twice a year on-site assessment from one of our ISA-certified arborists.