If you’re planning on putting in a boxwood hedge, there’s one question you’re definitely going to run into: How close together should these little guys actually be? Well, the answer isn’t exactly one-size-fits-all. It really depends on a few key factors before you start digging.
Why Spacing Matters More Than You Think
When you’re dreaming up a boxwood hedge or a tidy garden border, you usually have two goals: you want it to look full and lush as quickly as possible, but you also want it to stay healthy for years to come.
Planting them close together gets you that “instant” hedge look, but giving them a little breathing room ensures each plant gets enough sunlight, water, and nutrients. Plus, good airflow is your best defense against fungal infections. The trick is finding that “Goldilocks” zone where they’re close enough to fill in, but far enough apart to thrive.
Size Matters: How Big Are Your Saplings?
The smaller your starter plants are, the longer it’s going to take for them to form a solid wall. To keep things moving along without waiting a lifetime, you should base your spacing on their current height:
- Small plants (up to 6 inches tall): Space them about 4 to 6 inches apart.
- Larger plants: Aim for about 10 to 12 inches apart.
Pro Tip:
Hedges require a lot of plants, which can get pricey. If you aren’t in a huge rush, you can actually propagate your own boxwoods at home to save some cash. Just keep in mind it takes a bit of patience!
Consider the Growth Habit
Not all boxwoods are created equal. If you’ve picked a variety known for fast growth, you can afford to give them a little extra space. On the flip side, if you have a slow-growing variety, don’t spread them too far apart—but don’t cram them in too tight either, or they’ll eventually choke each other out.
Spacing for Standalone (Solitary) Plants
If you’re planting a boxwood as a standalone feature rather than a hedge, it needs even more elbow room. Boxwoods have shallow root systems that spread out wide near the surface. To keep it happy, give it plenty of space away from other plants. And if you’re planning to prune it into a cool geometric shape or topiary, make sure there’s enough room to walk all the way around it so your handiwork can really shine!
