Boxwood diseases on the rise
The persistent caused by the fungus Cylindrocladium buxicola are particularly problematic Boxwood shoot deaths as well as the very difficult to control box tree moth, whose caterpillars devour entire stands within a very short time. The latter is particularly tricky because the infestation is often noticed too late. The caterpillars begin their feeding activity inside the bush and slowly work their way out from there. If there are already hundreds of caterpillars cavorting on the box, only drastic measures will help. Both Diseases have only been known for a few years; they were brought in through imports from other parts of the world. Nevertheless, they are a massive threat to the European book and the centuries-old garden culture associated with it.
also read
- It is better not to fertilize boxwood with blue grain
- Boxwood dies - how can you still save it?
- Fertilize boxwood with coffee grounds - useful or not?
Appropriate rescue measures
Even garden experts were at a loss until a few years ago, but today we know a lot more about them named harmful organisms - especially about how an infestation is combated or even prevented leaves. It is best to use these remedies for both diseases:
- Do not prune the box between April and September as usual.
- Instead, grab scissors on a frost-free and rain-free day between January and March.
- Dust the box from the beginning of April with fine Algae lime.
- Algae lime is also not without problems for other reasons.
- On the other hand, it is a real miracle weapon in the event of an acute or threatened infestation.
- Consistently keep the soil pH between 7 and 8.
- Ensure a balanced supply of water and nutrients.
As a preventive measure, you should never plant box trees too densely, but rather leave a little more space between the individual plants. Also choose less sensitive varieties: especially the border varieties 'Blauer Heinz' and 'Suffruticosa' are often severely affected, others (such as 'Faulkner' or 'Herrenhausen') are on the other hand Rare.
When is it better to replace the boxwood?
If the infestation occurs before June, even one can be bald Boxwood often still to be saved. It becomes more difficult, however, when the disease with its drastic effects occurs later in the year. The earlier the infestation and control take place, the more time the beech tree has to recover and to sprout again. The likelihood that a bald or heavily pruned bush recovered and sprout again by spring is, however, small.
Tips
Brown leaves often indicate a fungal disease, but sometimes it is simply a plug sunburn behind.
