The Best Time to Replant Buxus Sempervirens

Replanting Time

• All boxwood plants, including Buxus sempervirens, may be planted all through the year if special care is given to the new plants. However, the best time for planting boxwood is during fall or between late winter and early spring, as suggested by the Alabama Cooperative Extension. This is the time when the temperatures are above freezing and the plants are in a dormant state of growth, allowing the roots to get established before the active growth season starts.

Soil

• Replanting at the right time is just as important as planting in the right type of soil. Choose a well-drained soil for planting Buxus sempervirens. The plants are well adapted to slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils with a pH ranging between 5.5 to 7.5. It is best to conduct a soil test prior to planting and amend soil accordingly with lime or sulfur to improve pH levels. Do not plant in poorly drained or consistently wet soil such as near downspouts or under a tree's drip line.

Planting Suggestions

• Buxus sempervirens is a shallow rooted plant that does not establish well if it is planted very deeply. Plant at a depth where the root ball is a little above the soil line. Planting too deeply increases susceptibility to root rot disorders and dieback. Dig the planting hole twice as wide as the root ball. After planting, fill with porous, good quality topsoil as this helps the roots to grow rapidly. Water thoroughly after planting.

Mulch

• Mulching is a highly recommended practice for Buxus plants, including Buxus sempervirens. The addition of mulch helps to conserve soil moisture as the plants are extremely sensitive to hot and dry soil. After transplanting, apply a 2- to 3-inch-deep layer of mulch around the plants, starting from stem to at least a foot outward from the canopy. Do not spread black plastic on the ground prior to mulching. Mulch materials include wood chips, bark mulch or pine needles.