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winter burn or boxwood blight? #874482

Asked June 24, 2024, 3:47 PM EDT

My Buxus s. has quite a bit of damage. Is it winter burn or boxwood blight?

Clackamas County Oregon

Expert Response

Thank you for your question.   I believe that it is neither, but wonder if you could take a photo of the entire hedge, so we can determine if there is a pattern.  It would also be helpful to know if any of the green leaves have any spots on them, top or underside.  Thanks for more information!
An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 25, 2024, 6:19 PM EDT
The green  leaves are spot free.
These box have been thriving for 20+ years until this winter.
Attached is a jpeg of the hedge.
Thanks, 
John Eastman
AA ornamental Hort 
MHCC 1975

On Tue, Jun 25, 2024 at 3:20 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied June 25, 2024, 6:41 PM EDT
Thanks, John.  I was afraid of that.  I believe this is the culprit:  https://pnwhandbooks.org/plantdisease/host-disease/boxwood-buxus-spp-phytophthora-root-crown-rot

I assume your training equips you to understand the control mechanisms, as well as recognizing the only fungicide available to homeowners, Monterey Garden Phos.  Stargus is an organic, biological control, if you can find it.  I hope this helps.  Good luck!
An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 25, 2024, 6:50 PM EDT
Thank you so much for the info! 

On Tue, Jun 25, 2024 at 3:50 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied June 26, 2024, 10:19 AM EDT
Welcome!
An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 26, 2024, 10:20 AM EDT

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