boxwood are democratic evergreen bush have intercourse for their dense leafage and power to be shaped into various forms . However , sometimes these beautiful plants can start to correct and eventually die . There are two main culprit that could be make this publication : genus Phytophthora antecedent guff and English boxwood descent .

Phytophthora root guff is a ground - borne disease that affects several boxwood varieties include the American Turkish boxwood , English Turkish boxwood , and littleleaf boxwood . This disease is make by a fungus - like organism called Phytophthora , which expand in moist territory weather condition . It attacks the roots of the boxwood , causing them to rot and eventually die .

The symptoms of Phytophthora root decomposition include yellowing and wilting leave , stunted growth , and a general descent in the overall wellness of the plant life . If you distrust your box may have this disease , you may dig up a small portion of the root system and look for dark , mushy roots . Another telltale sign is the bearing of blanched , cotton plant - similar growth on the roots .

English boxwood descent , on the other hand , is a complex disease that primarily impress the English boxwood variety , specifically the cultivar ‘ Suffruticosa ’ . This disease is characterized by the gradual decline of the plant over several twelvemonth , finally leading to its last . The exact case of English box decline is still not fully understood , but it is believe to be a combination of factor including environmental stress , root rot diseases , and genetic susceptibility .

The symptoms of English boxwood decline include leaf yellowing and browning , dieback of ramification , and a general thinning of the leafage . The declivity typically get going on one side of the plant and slowly build throughout the entire shrub . Unlike Phytophthora rootage decomposition , the roots of boxwoods dissemble by English Turkish boxwood downslope are normally tidy and do not show signs of rot .

preclude and managing these diseases require a combination of ethnic practices and the consumption of appropriate antifungal agent . Here are some steps you may take to protect your boxwoods :

1 . Plant boxwoods in well - drain soil : These shrubs favour grime that is moist but not to a fault wet . amend drain in heavy the Great Compromiser soils can serve prevent the ontogenesis of origin rot diseases .

2 . Avoid overwatering : water supply Turkish boxwood deeply but infrequently to advance deep rootage growth . keep off frequent shallow watering , as this can make a damp environment that is contributing to root rot disease .

3 . Provide enough air circulation : Prune boxwoods to exert good atmosphere circulation , as this can help reduce the risk of exposure of disease ontogeny . Avoid planting box too closelipped together , as this can make a crowded surroundings that promote disease spread .

4 . Monitor and controller plague : Pests such as aphids and mites can weaken Turkish boxwood and make them more susceptible to diseases . Regularly inspect your works for preindication of pest infestation and take appropriate measures to curb them .

5 . Apply fungicides : In severe cause of Phytophthora root rot or English boxwood decline , fungicides may be necessary to manage the diseases . refer with a professional or your local garden center for appropriate fungicide good word and program guidelines .

The master causal agency of box decline and death are Phytophthora root rot and English boxwood decline . These disease can be foreclose and managed through proper ethnic practices , such as well - drain soil , enough lachrymation , upright air circulation , plague ascendance , and the habit of antimycotic agent when necessary . By strike proactive measures , you could assist assure the wellness and longevity of your boxwood plants .

Caroline Bates