Hi Janet,

Boxwoods have an approx. lifespan of 30 to 50 Years old.  Could you take a close-up photo of the leaves (both sides) and send it to me.  Healthy and brown leaves.  It will greatly help me to identify the issue.  

Pam
MSUE Master Gardener

Good afternoon, just checking in to see if you will be able to provide the photos requested by Pam, our expert.

Hi-

Tried uploading these last week and site is only allowing me to add 3 files.  See below

Hello Janet,

Boxwoods are generally long-lived shrubs, with some varieties lasting for decades if properly maintained. More information at this link:

Buxus sempervirens (Boxwood, Common Box, Common Boxwood, European Box) | North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox

However, they can experience thinning due to age, environmental stress, or disease. More information at this link:

Boxwood: Identify and Manage Common Problems | University of Maryland Extension

Since yours have been in place for over 10 years, they may benefit from thinning—a pruning method that removes entire stems to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration. More information at this link:

Boxwood: Identify and Manage Common Problems | University of Maryland Extension

Additionally, boxwoods prefer well-drained soil and a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.5-7.2). More information at this link:

Boxwood: Identify and Manage Common Problems | University of Maryland Extension

If the soil conditions have changed over time, this could contribute to their thinning appearance. You might also want to check for pests like leafminers, psyllids, or boxwood mites, which can weaken the plant. More information at this link:

Boxwood: Identify and Manage Common Problems | University of Maryland Extension

Since your boxwoods are protected from harsh winter conditions, winter burn is less likely, but regular pruning and monitoring for disease can help maintain their health. More information at this link:

Boxwood: Identify and Manage Common Problems | University of Maryland Extension

Contact the MSU Plant and Plant Diagnostics for guidance if you suspect disease or pest issues.

To confirm and precisely identify any disease problems, I highly recommend that you send your images by e-mail to the MSU Plant & Pest Diagnostics Lab.

Their email is <personal data hidden> - Please include your first and last name.

The experts there can also provide you with the best treatment options.

The lab will let you know if they need a sample sent.

The lab may also ask for additional images. So be prepared.

Their website is at this link:

Plant & Pest Diagnostics (msu.edu)

Their Contact Information is at this link:

Contact Us - Plant & Pest Diagnostics (msu.edu)

This link will explain the details on submitting a sample to the MSU Plant & Pest Diagnostics Lab:

Submit Samples - Plant & Pest Diagnostics (msu.edu)

I hope this helps!

Hello again,
Here is some additional links for you. The Maryland extension links given above, are not working right now as you may have noticed.
Here is a link on boxwood psyllid, which is showing in your close-up photo as the cupped, rounded leaves . https://entomology.ca.uky.edu/ef454

Here are links on boxwood leaf-miner and its control, which it appears your shrubs may also have. Please do consult the MSU plant and pest diagnostic lab as Mel suggested earlier for their opinion.
https://bygl.osu.edu/node/1230
https://extension.psu.edu/the-boxwood-leafminer-makes-its-yearly-entrance-in-spring

Hello again,

Here is an additional link for you.
Boxwood insect pests - MSU Extension

I hope this helps!