What To Plant Behind Boxwoods

Boxwoods are known for their beautiful, evergreen foliage that add an elegant touch to any landscape. But have you ever wondered what to plant behind boxwoods to complement their beauty and enhance the overall look of your garden? In this blog post, we'll explore some ideas on what to plant behind boxwoods to create a stunning, cohesive landscape.

Pain Points Related to What to Plant Behind Boxwoods

When it comes to landscaping, one of the biggest challenges homeowners face is selecting the right plants that not only look good but also thrive in their garden. Choosing the wrong plants can result in a mismatched, uncoordinated landscape that fails to create the desired impact. Moreover, selecting plants that require vastly different care or growing conditions can make maintenance a nightmare.

What to Plant Behind Boxwoods?

If you're wondering what to plant behind boxwoods, you're not alone. The good news is there are plenty of plants that complement boxwoods and are easy to grow. Here are some ideas:

1. Hydrangeas:

Hydrangeas are a popular choice to plant behind boxwoods. Their lush foliage and big, beautiful blooms in shades of pink, blue, and white add a splash of color and texture to the landscape. Hydrangeas prefer the same growing conditions as boxwoods, making them an easy addition to your garden.

Hydrangeas behind boxwoods

2. Hostas:

Hostas are a low-maintenance perennial that grows well in shade or part sun. Their foliage comes in a variety of colors and textures, making them a great option to contrast with the deep green of boxwoods.

Hostas behind boxwoods

3. Rose bushes:

Rose bushes not only add color but also fragrance to your garden. They grow well in the sun and bloom in spring and summer. Plant them behind boxwoods or intersperse them with boxwoods for a beautiful composition.

Rose bushes behind boxwoods

4. Ornamental grasses:

Ornamental grasses are a great companion plant for boxwoods. They add height, texture, and movement to the landscape. Ornamental grasses are also low maintenance, making them an easy addition to your garden.

Ornamental grasses behind boxwoods

Personal Experience

I recently planted a row of hostas behind my boxwoods, and the result is stunning. The hostas' lush foliage and pops of color in shades of green, blue, and yellow complement the deep green of the boxwoods. Not only do they look good together, but they also require similar growing conditions, making them a low-maintenance combination. I highly recommend giving it a try!

Mulching Behind Boxwoods

Mulching behind boxwoods is essential to maintain a healthy garden. Mulch helps retain moisture in the soil, suppresses weeds, and regulates soil temperature. When mulching behind boxwoods, it's crucial to leave a gap between the boxwoods and the mulch to prevent rot and disease. A layer of 2-3 inches of mulch is sufficient to provide these benefits.

Mulched boxwoods with hydrangeas

How to Prune Boxwoods to Enhance the Look

Pruning boxwoods correctly is critical to maintain their shape and enhance their look. Boxwoods should be pruned in early spring before new growth appears. Use sharp gardening shears to cut back any dead or diseased branches. Afterward, shape the boxwoods using your shears or hedge clippers to create a well-manicured look. Be careful not to cut the boxwoods too hard, as this can cause them to become weak and unhealthy.

Question and Answer

Q: Can I plant annuals behind boxwoods?

A: Absolutely! Annuals are a great addition to any garden and can add pops of color and texture to your landscape. Consider planting petunias, marigolds, or impatiens behind your boxwoods for a vibrant display.

Q: Can I use boxwoods as a hedge?

A: Yes, boxwoods are a popular choice for creating hedges. They provide year-round privacy and add an elegant touch to any landscape. To create a boxwood hedge, plant boxwoods in a straight line, spacing them 1-2 feet apart, and prune them regularly to maintain their shape.

Q: Are boxwoods prone to disease?

A: Boxwoods can be susceptible to a few diseases, such as blight and canker. To prevent these diseases, make sure to mulch around your boxwoods, water them regularly, and avoid overcrowding. If you notice any signs of disease, such as discoloration or dead branches, prune them immediately and dispose of the affected parts to prevent the disease from spreading.

Q: How often should I fertilize boxwoods?

A: Boxwoods are low-maintenance plants and do not require frequent fertilization. You can fertilize them once a year, in early spring, with a slow-release fertilizer. Alternatively, you can add a layer of compost around your boxwoods in the fall to provide nutrients for the next growing season.

Conclusion

When it comes to landscaping with boxwoods, the key is to choose companion plants that complement their beauty and require similar growing conditions. Hydrangeas, hostas, rose bushes, and ornamental grasses are all great options to plant behind boxwoods to create a beautiful, cohesive landscape. Don't forget to mulch behind your boxwoods, prune them regularly to maintain their shape, and fertilize them once a year. With these tips, you'll have a stunning, healthy garden that you can enjoy for years to come.

Gallery

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