Free for 30 daysNo credit card.

Start free trial
Plant guide

Shrub · Outdoors

Boxwood

Buxus

Add to my home

Care schedule

Light
Morning sun, afternoon shade Source: Clemson University Extension
Frost
Tolerates light frost in most climates · typical

Each line links to its published source. Your pot, light, season and climate matter more than the calendar.

Care tips

  • Water deeply during dry spells, especially the first two years.
  • Shear lightly in late spring.
  • Mulch to keep roots cool.

In GoodKeap

Save your boxwood to get these reminders in Upkeap, log each watering and feeding, add progress photos, and see weather prompts for your address.

From university extension guides

Each line links to the published guidance it came from.

Light

Morning sun, afternoon shade

Boxwoods grow best in partial shade, specifically tolerating morning sun as long as they receive afternoon shade.

Source: Clemson University Extension

Checked Oct 2026

Watering

During long dry spells

While drought tolerant, boxwoods should be irrigated during long dry periods to prevent stress and disease susceptibility.

Source: North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox

Checked Oct 2026

Feeding

Spring, if needed

If established boxwoods require feeding, fertilizer should be applied in the spring before new growth begins.

Source: Oregon State University Extension

Checked Oct 2026