Companion Plants with Boxwood: Enhancing Your Garden's Beauty and Health

The Importance of Companion Plants

If you're looking to create a beautiful and thriving garden, then you should consider planting companion plants. Companion plants are those that grow well together and complement each other in various ways. They can help improve soil health, deter pests, attract beneficial insects, and provide visual interest.

One plant that makes an excellent companion for many other species is the boxwood (Buxus sempervirens). This popular evergreen shrub is known for its versatility and easy maintenance. It can add structure to your garden and serves as an excellent backdrop or border plant. But did you know that boxwoods also benefit from the presence of other plants? In this article, we'll explore some of the best companion plants for boxwood and how they can enhance your garden's beauty and health.

Companion Plants for Boxwood

1. Hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla)

Hydrangeas are a popular choice for gardeners because of their stunning blooms and ability to thrive in partial shade. They make great companions for boxwoods because they have similar soil requirements, preferring moist, well-draining soil. The hydrangea's large leaves also provide a beautiful contrast to the smaller, more compact foliage of the boxwood.

How to Plant:

Plant hydrangeas near boxwoods in partial shade. Ensure the soil is well-draining and contains enough organic matter. Water both regularly but avoid overwatering.

2. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavender is a fragrant herb that is not only beautiful but also has numerous health benefits. It's known for its ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which can help promote a healthy ecosystem in your garden. It also repels pests like moths and mosquitoes, making it an excellent companion plant for boxwood.

How to Plant:

Plant lavender near boxwoods in full sun and well-draining soil. Water regularly, but avoid overwatering.

3. Hostas (Hosta spp.)

Hostas are shade-loving plants that make excellent companions for boxwoods. They have large, attractive foliage and come in a variety of colors and textures, making them a great way to add visual interest to your garden. Hostas also help improve soil health by providing organic matter as they decompose.

How to Plant:

Plant hostas near boxwoods in partial or full shade. Ensure the soil is moist and well-draining. Water regularly.

4. Ferns (Polystichum acrostichoides)

Ferns are another shade-loving plant that makes a great companion for boxwoods. They have delicate fronds that provide a beautiful contrast to the boxwood's more structured foliage. Ferns also help improve soil health by adding organic matter.

How to Plant:

Plant ferns near boxwoods in partial or full shade. Ensure the soil is moist and well-draining. Water regularly.

5. Daylilies (Hemerocallis spp.)

Daylilies are a popular choice for gardens because of their colorful blooms and easy maintenance. They make excellent companions for boxwoods because they have similar soil requirements and can tolerate partial shade. Daylilies also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which can help promote a healthy ecosystem in your garden.

How to Plant:

Plant daylilies near boxwoods in partial shade. Ensure the soil is well-draining and contains enough organic matter. Water regularly.

Companion Plants to Avoid

While there are many plants that make great companions for boxwoods, there are also some that should be avoided. These include:

1. Azaleas (Rhododendron spp.)

Azaleas have similar soil requirements as boxwoods, but they are susceptible to the same pests and diseases. If planted too closely together, they can also compete for nutrients and water.

2. Yews (Taxus spp.)

Yews are another evergreen shrub that can be attractive in a garden, but they don't make good companions for boxwoods. They have different soil requirements and can be more susceptible to pests and diseases.

3. Junipers (Juniperus spp.)

Junipers have a shallow root system that can compete with boxwoods for water and nutrients. They also have different soil requirements and can be more susceptible to pests and diseases.

Tips for Successful Companion Planting with Boxwood

Here are some tips to help you successfully companion plant with boxwoods:

1. Choose plants with similar soil requirements.

Boxwoods prefer moist, well-draining soil, so it's important to choose companion plants that have similar soil requirements.

2. Consider the amount of sun exposure.

Boxwoods can tolerate partial shade, but they do best in full sun. When choosing companion plants, consider how much sun exposure they need and plant accordingly.

3. Provide adequate spacing.

Make sure to provide adequate spacing between your boxwoods and companion plants. This will help prevent competition for nutrients and water, and allow each plant to grow to its full potential.

4. Water regularly.

All plants need water to thrive, so make sure to water your boxwoods and companion plants regularly. However, avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other problems.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I plant annual flowers with boxwood?

Yes, you can plant annual flowers with boxwood. Just make sure to choose varieties that have similar soil and sun requirements.

2. What are some good perennials to plant with boxwood?

Some good perennials to plant with boxwood include daylilies, hostas, ferns, and heuchera.

3. How far apart should I plant companion plants from my boxwoods?

It's best to provide at least 2-3 feet of spacing between your boxwoods and companion plants.

4. Can I plant vegetables or herbs with boxwood?

Yes, you can plant vegetables or herbs with boxwood. Just make sure to choose varieties that have similar soil and sun requirements.

5. Do I need to fertilize my boxwoods and companion plants?

Boxwoods and many companion plants benefit from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer and follow the instructions on the label.