Can I Transplant a Japanese Boxwood in the Summer?

Transplanting Time

• The best time for transplanting all boxwoods, including Japanese boxwood, is during fall or between late winter and early spring, when the temperatures are above freezing. Though the plant can also be transplanted anytime throughout the year, this is not a recommended practice since plants require special care during other times. If this care is not provided, especially during the heat of summer, the transplants are likely to fail.

Soil

• Plant in a moderately fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7. The plant has a very shallow root system and is highly prone to infection from root rot fungi in poorly drained ground. Avoid planting close to downspouts or in continually wet landscape sites.

Plant Selection

• Selecting healthy, disease-free plants is among the first steps toward success in transplanting. Healthy Japanese boxwoods will have strong stems and dark green foliage. If purchasing container plants, lay the container on the side and slip the plant out to inspect roots. Sick roots are indicated by visibly dark, rotted root areas. Galls or abnormal tissue growth may also be present on roots indicating disease or nematodes.

Mulch

• Mulching after planting is highly beneficial for the shallow-rooted Japanese boxwood, which is very sensitive to dry and hot soil conditions. Apply 2 to 3 inches of organic mulch such as bark mulch, wood chips or pine needles after planting. Start mulch application from the plant stem and extend a foot outward from the canopy. Since organic mulches decompose over time, they need continual replacement. The use of mulch will moderate soil temperature, keep weeds in check and help to conserve moisture.