As winter approaches, many gardeners find themselves pondering the best ways to protect their beloved boxwoods from the harsh elements. These evergreen shrubs, cherished for their dense foliage and versatile use in landscaping, can suffer significant damage from winter burn, desiccation, and heavy snow loads if left unprotected. Wrapping boxwoods in burlap is a time-tested and highly effective method to safeguard their health and aesthetic appeal through the colder months. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps, considerations, and best practices for successfully preparing your boxwoods for winter, ensuring they emerge vibrant and healthy in the spring.
Understanding the “Why”: Why Boxwoods Need Winter Protection
Before diving into the “how-to,” it’s crucial to understand why boxwoods, particularly those exposed to sun and wind, benefit immensely from winter protection. Boxwoods are broadleaf evergreens, meaning they retain their leaves throughout the winter. This characteristic, while beautiful, makes them susceptible to several winter-related issues. Winter burn occurs when sunlight warms the leaves, causing them to transpire (lose water) during periods when the ground is frozen. The roots cannot replenish this lost moisture, leading to dehydration and browning of the foliage. Strong winter winds exacerbate this desiccation. Furthermore, heavy snowfall and ice can physically damage branches, causing breakage or splaying, especially for larger or older specimens. Burlap acts as a physical barrier against wind and sun, reducing water loss and preventing direct contact with harsh elements, while also offering some protection against snow and ice accumulation.
Gathering Your Materials and Preparing the Boxwood
Proper preparation is key to an effective burlap wrap. Begin by gathering the necessary materials: high-quality burlap (natural, breathable, and untreated is best, available in rolls or large sheets), twine or sturdy rope (natural fiber like jute or sisal is ideal), scissors or a utility knife, and possibly stakes or a supportive structure for larger plants. Before wrapping, ensure your boxwood is well-hydrated. A thorough watering in late fall, before the ground freezes, is critical. This “deep drink” provides the plant with a reservoir of moisture to draw upon during the winter. You may also consider applying an antitranspirant spray, although burlap typically offers superior protection. Lightly prune any dead or diseased branches, but avoid heavy pruning in late fall as this can stimulate new growth that won’t harden off before winter.
The Art of Wrapping: Step-by-Step Techniques
Wrapping boxwoods can be approached in a few ways, depending on the plant’s size and shape. For smaller, more compact boxwoods, a simple cylinder wrap works well. Gently tie the branches together with soft twine to prevent splaying, but do not cinch tightly. Cut a piece of burlap long enough to encircle the plant and tall enough to cover it completely. Wrap the burlap around the boxwood, overlapping the edges, and secure it with twine, working from bottom to top. Ensure the burlap does not directly touch the foliage, allowing for some air circulation; a slight gap is beneficial. For larger or more irregularly shaped boxwoods, creating a teepee or cage structure from stakes can provide support before wrapping. Drive stakes into the ground around the plant, then drape burlap over the structure, securing it to the stakes and along the bottom to prevent wind from getting underneath. Alternatively, for very large plants, you can create burlap screens or walls on the windward and sunny sides to provide targeted protection. Always leave the top somewhat open or loose to allow for air circulation and prevent excessive heat buildup on sunny winter days.
Below is a table summarizing common boxwood types and their typical winter hardiness, indicating which might benefit most from wrapping:
| Boxwood type | USDA hardiness zone | Susceptibility to winter damage | Wrapping recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buxus sempervirens ‘Suffruticosa’ (English Boxwood) | 5-8 | Moderate to high (especially in exposed sites) | Recommended in zones 5-6 and exposed locations |
| Buxus microphylla var. japonica (Japanese Boxwood) | 6-9 | Moderate | Beneficial in zones 6-7, particularly for younger plants |
| Buxus ‘Green Velvet’ | 4-9 | Low to moderate | Optional in zone 4-5, mainly for wind protection |
| Buxus sempervirens (Common Boxwood) | 5-8 | Moderate | Recommended in zones 5-6 and for mature specimens |
Taking the time to properly wrap your boxwoods in burlap is an investment that pays dividends in their health and beauty come spring. This essential winter chore safeguards your evergreens from the ravages of winter burn, desiccation, and physical damage from snow and ice. By providing a protective barrier, you allow your boxwoods to conserve moisture and minimize stress during their dormant period. Remember to choose breathable burlap, ensure adequate pre-winter hydration, and secure the wrapping properly to prevent wind infiltration. With these careful steps, you’ll ensure your cherished boxwoods emerge from the cold months vibrant, green, and ready to continue enhancing your landscape for years to come, demonstrating the enduring value of proactive winter plant care.
Image by: NordWood Themes