Box Hedging also known as Buxus Sempervirens is a popular landscaping choice for giving your outdoor space a neat and tidy look.
Featuring glossy green leaves, these slow growing evergreen shrubs provide a beautiful evergreen hedge. However, box blight disease can be an issue with box plants, making alternative hedging varieties more desirable.
In this article, we will explore suitable alternatives to box hedge that are just as effective at creating the desired effect while also allowing you to add unique touches and personalise your outdoor space.
We will discuss some of the top alternative options such as Euonymus Green Spire, Euonymus Jean Hughes and Box Leaf Honeysuckle so that you can make an informed decision when selecting the right hedging plants for your garden.
Box hedging has been a popular choice for landscaping due to its neat and tidy appearance and glossy dark green leaves. It can be easily pruned into topiary shapes, low hedges and defined edges, giving your garden a neat and refined look.
It has an average growth rate of 10-20cm per year, making it the ideal choice for a low hedge.
Box thrives in well drained soil, and will tolerate a wide range of soil types.
It is also suitable for planting all year round and will produce new growth throughout spring and early summer.
However, box blight disease is an issue that can occur with box hedges which results in the plants becoming prone to fungal infection and death.
With alternative hedge options available, you can avoid this problem while also taking advantage of more creative choices to personalise your outdoor space.
Box plants, while popular for their neat appearance, are susceptible to several issues that can affect their health and aesthetics. One of the most prevalent problems is box blight, a fungal disease caused by Cylindrocladium buxicola. This disease can spread through water, insects, and contaminated pruning tools, leading to black or brown spots on the leaves, premature defoliation, and a general decline in plant health.
Another significant threat to box plants is the box tree caterpillar, also known as the box tree moth. These pests are most active from April to October and can cause extensive damage by eating the leaves and creating webbing around their feeding areas. If left unchecked, they can severely weaken or even kill the plant. Control methods include using insecticides or biological controls.
Other common issues include root rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew, often caused by overwatering, poor soil quality, and inadequate pruning. Addressing these problems early on can help maintain the health and longevity of your box plants.
Box blight disease is a fungal infection that can affect box hedging and cause affected plants to turn black, brown or grey in colour and die off.
This can have a devastating effect on your garden and it is best to consider alternative options early on to avoid this problem.
Box caterpillar otherwise known as box hedge caterpillar can cause significant damage to box hedges and alternative hedge varieties if left unchecked.
These small insects feed on the foliage of box plants, leaving behind holes in the leaves and stems which can weaken the overall structure of the plant.
In severe cases, an infestation can lead to plant death. For further information on common problems with box hedges, please read our guide to box pests and diseases.
There are a range of alternative hedge plants available that offer the same neat and tidy effect as box hedging, very popular with garden designers. Japanese holly, also known as Ilex crenata, is another excellent alternative, known for its ornamental qualities and glossy green leaves.
Hedge species such as Euonymus Green Spire, Euonymus Jean Hughes and Box Leaf Honeysuckle are flowering shrubs that can provide colour and texture to your garden without the risk of box blight.
Some of the most popular alternative hedge plants include:
When planting box alternatives like Euonymus, selecting the right location is crucial. Most box alternatives thrive in well-drained soil and can tolerate partial shade to full sun, depending on the specific plant’s needs. They generally prefer a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
To plant a box alternative, start by digging a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the plant’s root ball.
Carefully remove the plant from its container and place it in the hole, ensuring the root flare is level with the soil surface. Fill the hole with a mix of soil and organic matter, then water thoroughly to help the plant establish.
Caring for box alternatives involves regular watering, especially during the first year after planting and during hot, dry weather.
Annual fertilisation with a balanced hedge fertiliser will promote healthy growth. Regular pruning is also essential to maintain the plant’s shape and encourage dense foliage.
Pruning is vital for maintaining the health and appearance of box alternatives. The frequency and technique of pruning will depend on the specific plant and the desired shape.
For formal hedges, regular pruning is necessary to maintain a uniform shape and promote dense growth. Use sharp, clean pruning tools to prevent the spread of disease, and make cuts just above a leaf node to encourage new growth.
For informal hedges or topiary, prune less frequently to maintain a more natural shape. Combine pruning with training techniques to achieve the desired form, making cuts just above a leaf node to stimulate new growth.
These alternative choices have an abundance of foliage that can allow you to create unique patterns and shapes in your garden or outdoor space.
Additionally, other plants tend to require less maintenance than box hedging as they are more resistant to common box diseases and pests.
Alternative hedging plants give you the opportunity to be creative with your garden. You can use alternative plants to create geometric shapes or curved pathways, adding a unique touch to your design.
Additionally, you can use alternative plants to add heights and dimensions by planting them behind other foliage or flower beds.
Whatever you decide, alternative plants are sure to bring more variety and colour to your outdoor living space.
When working with box alternatives, several common mistakes can hinder their growth and health. Overwatering is a frequent issue, leading to root rot and other problems. Ensure the plant receives regular watering but avoid excessive moisture, particularly during the winter months.
Inadequate pruning is another common mistake. Regular pruning is essential for maintaining the health and appearance of box alternatives. Neglecting this can result in a decline in the plant’s overall health.
Other mistakes include planting in poorly drained soil, failing to fertilize annually, and using contaminated pruning tools. Avoiding these errors will help ensure your box alternatives thrive.
Box alternatives offer numerous advantages over traditional box plants. One of the most significant benefits is their resistance to box blight and other diseases. Many box alternatives are also more tolerant of pests and environmental stressors, making them a more durable option for landscaping.
Versatility is another key benefit. Box alternatives can be used for various applications, including hedges, topiary, and container gardens. They come in a range of shapes, sizes, and colors, allowing you to find a plant that fits your specific needs.
Aesthetically, box alternatives are a beautiful addition to any landscape. Many have attractive foliage, flowers, or berries, adding visual interest to your garden. They can be used to create a variety of shapes and designs, from formal hedges to informal topiary, enhancing the overall appeal of your outdoor space.
If you have any questions about choosing or planting box hedging alternatives, please don’t hesitate to contact the team at Hedging Plants Direct.
We are horticulturists with a wealth of experience of growing, training, pruning and establishing hedging. We’re here to advise you on which hedging species will look the best, perform the best and fit in best with your small garden and lifestyle.
Check our range of hedging plants or contact our team for advice
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Published on 09 March 2023 By Will Bodsworth
