Box Blight in Box Hedges
Box blight is a fungal disease that affects boxwood plants, including box hedges. It is caused by the fungus Cylindrocladium buxicola or Pseudonectria buxi, which can infect the leaves, stems, and branches of box plants.
The first symptoms of box blight in box hedges usually appear as circular, brownish-black spots on the leaves, which may then spread to the stems and branches. The infected leaves may also turn yellow or brown and eventually fall off, leaving the plant bare and unsightly.
In severe cases, box blight can cause defoliation and dieback of box hedges, leading to their eventual death. The disease is most common in humid and wet conditions, especially in warm temperatures, and can spread quickly from plant to plant through contact with infected plant material or soil.
Controlling box blight in box hedges requires a combination of cultural practices and chemical treatments. Here are some methods to control box blight in box hedges:
- Pruning and removing infected plant material: As soon as you notice the symptoms of box blight in your box hedge, prune and remove the affected branches and leaves. This will help to prevent the spread of the disease to healthy parts of the plant.
- Avoiding overhead irrigation: Box blight thrives in humid and wet conditions, so avoid overhead irrigation and water the plants at the base. This will keep the foliage dry and reduce the risk of infection.
- Improving air circulation around the plants: Prune the hedge to allow better air circulation and sunlight penetration. This will help to reduce the humidity and prevent the disease from spreading.
- Applying fungicides: Use a fungicide that is labelled for the control of box blight. Apply the fungicide according to the manufacturer’s instructions and repeat the application as necessary.
- Maintaining good plant hygiene: Keep the area around the box hedge free from fallen leaves and other debris, as these can harbor fungal spores and increase the risk of infection.
- Avoiding overcrowding of plants: Overcrowding of plants can reduce air circulation and create humid conditions that are favorable for the growth of box blight.
- Choosing resistant boxwood varieties: Some boxwood varieties are more resistant to box blight than others. If you are planting new box hedges, choose varieties that are known to be resistant to the disease.
By following these methods, you can control box blight in your box hedges and prevent the disease from spreading.