Handling Dead Boxwood Shrubs - Ask Extension
I recently bought a house with 10 boxwood shrubs with backyard wall, but most of them are infested with boxwood blight. I plan to replace them, but I...
Knowledgebase
Handling Dead Boxwood Shrubs #881025
Asked August 11, 2024, 1:42 PM EDT
I recently bought a house with 10 boxwood shrubs with backyard wall, but most of them are infested with boxwood blight. I plan to replace them, but I have a few questions about handling the dead plants:
- Could the blight spread to other plants?
- Is it safe to shred the dead boxwoods into mulch for other plants?
- Can I use thicker branches as kindling in my indoor fireplace without causing harm to myself?
Thanks...
Marin County California
Expert Response
Here is a link to some great information on boxwood blight from Purdue University.
Yes the blight can spread to other boxwood plants.
If you shred the boxwood plants and use it as mulch you are spreading the disease. The disease can live in the soil for several years.
I am not aware of any issues with burning the infected plant material.
Yes the blight can spread to other boxwood plants.
If you shred the boxwood plants and use it as mulch you are spreading the disease. The disease can live in the soil for several years.
I am not aware of any issues with burning the infected plant material.
