In theory, boxwoods are supposed to be long-lived garden staples. But as many of us have learned the hard way, they can lose their mojo pretty fast. Sometimes, your once-lush shrub becomes a sad shadow of its former self. If it’s past the point of no return, it’s time to dig it out. It’s a bit of a workout, but totally doable!
Should you save it or scrap it?
Usually, it’s either a fungus or nasty pests that do the most damage. You’ll start seeing brown spots or yellowing leaves, and the plant just stops thriving. Naturally, we all want to try a rescue mission first. But sometimes, despite our best efforts, the boxwood dies anyway. When that happens, you’ve got to get it out of the garden—not just for aesthetics, but to stop diseases and pests from hitching a ride to your other plants.
Boxwoods: Shallow roots with a lot of “get up and go”
Whether your boxwood is sick or just in the way, removing it is a commitment. If you only cut off the branches above ground, the plant will just sprout right back from the base. That means you have to get the roots out, too. Even though boxwoods are shallow-rooted, those roots are incredibly dense and branched out. With a sharp spade and some patience, you can get the job done. (Though, if you’re dealing with a long hedge… maybe clear your schedule for the weekend!)
Quick Tip:
If you’re digging out a boxwood because it’s diseased, make sure to dispose of it properly. Don’t toss it in your compost pile! Also, avoid planting a new boxwood in that same spot for a few years to let the soil recover.
The “lazy” way to remove boxwood
Want to skip the back-breaking digging? You can, but you’ll need to be patient. Here’s how to starve it out:
- Cut the boxwood down to ground level in the heat of summer.
- Cover the root area with heavy-duty weed fabric.
- Alternatively, bury the stump under a thick layer of soil or a very acidic fertilizer.
- If you see any new green shoots popping up, rip them out immediately.
After about a year, the plant will run out of energy and give up the ghost. Victory is yours!
Better alternatives to the finicky boxwood
If you don’t want to deal with “boxwood blight” ever again, try a more resilient variety like “Herrenhausen.” Or, better yet, look into some great alternatives that give you a similar look without the drama. Japanese Holly (Ilex crenata), Privet, Yew, or Barberry are all fantastic options for hedges and borders.
