They grow best in full or partial sun and in well-draining soil.
Boxwoods can be toxic to people and pets.
Their roots are shallow, so the soil must be protected from the heat.
The Spruce / Cara Cormack
When sheltered by trees, the roots of dwarf boxwoods will profit from the cooler soil temperatures.
Soil
Boxwood shrubs require well-drained soils, or they will suffer from root rot.
Although they may tolerate soils with a lower pH, they prefer asoil pHin the 6.8 to 7.5 range.
The Spruce / Cara Cormack
Water
For the first two years, boxwoods require deep weekly watering.
Avoid shallow watering, since moisture will not reach the deepest roots.
Mature plants will thrive with a deep watering every two to four weeks.
The Spruce / Cara Cormack
Temperature and Humidity
Boxwoods typically thrive in the climate conditions in zones 6 to 8.
In very hot summer weather, the shrubs will appreciate more water and shade.
Zone 5 gardeners may find that stem tips die back in cold weather.
The Spruce / Cara Cormack
Fertilizer
Fertilizewith an all-purposefertilizer in springprior to the emergence of new growth.
For the amount, follow the product label instructions.
Only occasional pruning is required to clean out dead branches or those that are twisted together.
The Spruce / Cara Cormack
Propagating Boxwood Shrubs
Boxwood is best propagated by rooting from stem cuttings in midsummer.
For example, if you have a 12-inch-tall boxwood, you need a 12-inch diameter pot.
Overwintering
In the northern part of the hardiness range, new growth is susceptible to winter damage.
Protect the boxwoods with a burlap wrapping or similar protection during the first several years.
Common Pests & Plant Diseases
Leafminers, boxwood mites, and the boxwood psyllid are common pests.
The damage is disfiguring but not fatal, and the pests can be treated with horticultural oils.
In southern regions, nematodes are of concern.
But some gardeners do not mindand even actually valuethe winter bronzing on the foliage.
Dwarf boxwoodsrespond well to pruning, which makes them popular as bonsai plants.
Wall germander (Teucrium chamaedrys) is used in a similar way.
The important thing is to ensure that the plant receives good sunlight exposure indoors.
Boxwoods have historic significance.
If this really matters to you, ask your local nursery for varieties that have a milder scent.
North Carolina State Extension.
