Green Velvet Boxwood (Buxus x 'Green Velvet') Pollination

Green Velvet Boxwood is a cultivar of the boxwood species (Buxus spp.) and is highly valued for its compact, rounded form, dense foliage, and evergreen nature. This plant is not typically grown for its flowers or fruit production, as boxwoods are not generally considered to be significant pollinator plants. However, Green Velvet Boxwood can produce small, inconspicuous greenish-yellow flowers in early spring that are pollinated by wind or insects.

While boxwoods are not particularly attractive to bees and other pollinators, they can provide important habitat for wildlife. Birds may use the dense foliage for nesting, and small mammals like squirrels and rabbits may use the plant for cover or food.

Overall, while Green Velvet Boxwood may provide some limited pollination value, it is primarily grown for its ornamental value and is not considered a significant pollinator plant.

Green Velvet Boxwood (Buxus x 'Green Velvet') FAQ

What is a Green Velvet Boxwood?

Green Velvet Boxwood (Buxus x 'Green Velvet') is a popular hybrid boxwood cultivar that was developed by Sheridan Nurseries in Canada. It is known for its dark green, glossy foliage that retains its color throughout the year and its compact, rounded form that grows up to three feet tall and wide.

How to care for Green Velvet Boxwood?

Green Velvet Boxwood is fairly low maintenance and easy to care for. Here are some quick tips:

• Plant it in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and amend with compost.
• Water it regularly, especially during its first year of growth, to help it establish its root system.
• Mulch around the base of the plant to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
• Fertilize the plant in early spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer formulated for shrubs.
• Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to shape it and remove any dead or damaged branches.

How to propagate Green Velvet Boxwood?

Green Velvet Boxwood is propagated via softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Here’s a quick guide:

• Take 4- to 6-inch long cuttings from new growth
• Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem
• Dip the cuttings into rooting hormone powder
• Plant the cuttings in a well-draining soil mixture in a container
• Keep the soil moist and the container in a warm, bright location with indirect sunlight
• After six to eight weeks, check for roots by gently tugging on the cutting—if you feel resistance, it has rooted
• Transplant the rooted cutting into a larger container or into the ground

What are common problems with Green Velvet Boxwood?

Green Velvet Boxwood is generally resistant to most pests and diseases. However, here are some problems you may encounter:

• Boxwood blight: This serious fungal disease can cause rapid defoliation and dieback. It is spread by infected plant material and can survive in the soil for several years. Plant only disease-free cultivars and practice good cultural care to prevent infection.
• Winter burn: This occurs when the plant loses more moisture from its leaves than it can take up from the frozen soil. Symptoms include brown or bronze foliage that may drop off. Protect the plant from harsh winter winds and sun by creating a barrier and mulching around the base of the plant.
• Boxwood psyllid: This insect is a common pest of boxwood. It causes yellowing and distortion of the foliage and can reduce the plant's vigor if infestations are severe. Prune away any damaged foliage and spray with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil as a control.

Planting and Care for Green Velvet Boxwood

Planting

• Choose a location with well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun exposure.
• Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and slightly shallower than the height of the root ball.
• Gently loosen the roots and place the plant in the hole.
• Backfill the hole with soil and water thoroughly to settle the soil.
• Mulch around the plant to help retain moisture in the soil and suppress weeds.

Care

• Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during hot, dry spells.
• Fertilize in the spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer.
• Prune in late spring or early summer to maintain the desired shape and size.
• Avoid pruning during late summer or fall, as this may stimulate new growth that is susceptible to winter damage.
• Monitor for pests such as leaf miner and treat as necessary.
• Monitor for signs of boxwood blight and promptly remove any infected plants or plant parts.