Boxwood is an ornamental shrub that is eagerly used to create low hedges or borders of flower and herb beds. As a plant with outstanding regenerative abilities, it densifies very strongly when regularly pruned.Everything has changed in recent years, since a previously unknown pest - boxwood moth - appeared in Poland.
Boxwoods have never had to deal with such a formidable opponent. Fighting it is difficult not only due to the lack of natural enemies (the moth came to us from East Asia), but also difficulties in detecting it. The moth and its larvae settle in the thicket of leaves and are difficult to recognize at first glance.
As a preventive measure, box trees should be checked from March. If we find caterpillars, immediately reach for a dedicated insecticide.
Good to know
Boxwood is the only host plant for the boxwood moth larvae and is also a place for laying eggs.Our pest spends two or three generations a year, depending on the weather conditions.
Larvae develop on leaves and shoots, intensely spinning silk threads. Younger larvae gnaw the edges of the leaves, while the older ones eat almost the entire leaves.
The best products are those that provide prophylaxis and additionally combat already feeding pests.Systemic preparations are very effective, which, after being applied to the plant, penetrate through the tissues into its interior and they are distributed with juices to all parts of the plant.
This treatment provides protection for up to 3 weeks. It does not allow insects to be zeroed in the bush and protects against damage.Spraying should be done before the insect infestation, preferably in April, and repeated at the end of May.
Other boxwood pests
Honey boxwood Psylla buxi
Affected by these pests leaves curl and deform, honey dew appears on the affected parts.
Apple crust Lepidosaphes ulmi
Infected shoots die, you can observe diminution of leaves and limitation of plant growth. Convex brown or gray discs are visible on the shoots.
See ready-made preparations for fighting pests of boxwood:
On the attached material below, you will see how to apply the spraying to protect and protect boxwood against unwanted pests:
