The new boxwoods will need to be protected from wind and salt spray during the coldest months and November is a good time to make preparations.  These evergreen plants will continue to photosynthesize late into the season and even during the winter but will be challenged to take up the necessary moisture from the dry or frozen soil.  Wind blowing past the leaves will speed up evaporation creating even dryer conditions and a great stress on these plants.  The use of burlap fastened to stakes to create a wind break for the location is an excellent idea.  You will not want to wrap the shrubs too closely with burlap or their access to sunlight will be restricted. If heavy snow loads and breakage are a problem, consider a wrap during the hardest part of winter.

If the boxwoods are near a path or roadway that is treated with salt in the winter, positioning the windbreak to also prevent salt spray on the plants will greatly increase their chance of making it through the winter in good health.  Make sure that they are kept watered until the ground freezes and during any warm breaks in the winter weather.

You can find more complete information on caring for your boxwoods in our Guide to Boxwoods.

Courtesy of NYBG Plant Information Service