The Baby Gem Boxwood (Buxus microphylla japonica ‘Gregem’) is a compact, dwarf evergreen shrub valued for its dense, vibrant green foliage that retains its color year-round. This cultivar has a naturally rounded form, making it a favored choice for formal garden borders, low hedges, and container plantings. Its popularity stems from its tidy growth habit and reputation as a low-maintenance option for adding structure to the landscape.
Site Selection and Soil Preparation
The Baby Gem Boxwood thrives in full sun to partial shade, ideally receiving at least six hours of sunlight daily. Planting in an area with afternoon shade can protect the foliage from scorching in hotter climates. Excellent soil drainage is required, as the plant’s root system is susceptible to rot.
The soil should be loamy and well-draining, though Baby Gem is adaptable to various soil types and pH levels. Before planting, amend heavy clay soils with organic material like compost or pine bark to improve structure and aeration. Proper air circulation is also important for long-term health, so avoid planting in tight spaces where humidity can build up.
Planting Procedures and Initial Establishment
Dig a hole that is two to three times wider than the root ball but no deeper. This encourages the lateral spread of new roots into the surrounding area. Carefully set the plant so the top of the root ball, known as the crown, sits level with or slightly above the surrounding grade.
Planting the crown slightly high prevents water from pooling against the stem, which can lead to crown or root rot. Backfill the hole with the amended soil, gently tamping it down to remove air pockets. Immediately after planting, water the shrub deeply and thoroughly to settle the soil and ensure the roots are fully saturated.
Routine Watering and Fertilization
Consistent moisture management is required during the first year to establish a deep root system. Newly planted Boxwoods should be watered deeply twice a week, focusing the water at the base of the plant. Once established (after one full growing season), the shrub exhibits drought tolerance but benefits from supplemental water during extended dry periods.
During drought, provide a deep soaking once every seven to ten days, even during dry winter periods. Fertilization should be light, as this boxwood is not a heavy feeder. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth begins. Avoid high-nitrogen products, which can lead to soft growth vulnerable to cold damage and pests.
Pruning for Density and Shape
Pruning is an important practice for the Baby Gem Boxwood, as it maintains the desired dense structure and formal appearance. The best time for major shaping or corrective pruning is in late winter or early spring before the new season’s growth starts. This timing allows the shrub to quickly recover and produce a flush of new, dense foliage. Avoid heavy pruning in late summer or fall, as the resulting tender new growth will not have sufficient time to harden off before the first frost, making it susceptible to winter burn.
For a formal, manicured shape, light shearing can be done multiple times throughout the active growing season. Regular shearing, however, can create a dense outer layer of foliage that shades the interior, leading to bareness inside the shrub. To improve air circulation and allow light into the center, selectively thin the shrub by removing a few branches back to the main stem using hand pruners. This thinning technique promotes health and density from the inside out, which is beneficial for mitigating disease risk.
Addressing Common Boxwood Pests and Diseases
While Baby Gem Boxwood is generally resistant, it is susceptible to a few common issues that require monitoring. The Boxwood Leafminer is a prevalent insect pest whose larvae feed inside the leaves, causing blistering and discoloration. Although the damage is primarily aesthetic, maintaining plant vigor is a good preventative measure against this pest.
A more serious concern is Boxwood Blight, a fungal disease that causes dark leaf spots, rapid defoliation, and black cankers on the stems. Good air circulation, promoted through thinning pruning, helps reduce the moist conditions this fungus favors. Promptly removing and disposing of fallen debris or infected material around the base of the plant will also limit the spread of fungal spores.