Diagnosing Boxwood Decline: Why It's Not Always Boxwood Blight

Q: Is this boxwood blight?
A: My plant pathology friend Jean Williams-Woodward says: "The plant looks like it's dying from a root problem, not boxwood blight. It's planted next to a stone walkway. Roots appear to suffer from too much water and possibly root disease.

The initial symptom of boxwood blight is round, tan leaf spots with a dark border. Once the spot develops, leaves turn tan and drop. The area beneath the plant would be littered with fallen leaves.

In the image, I don't see leaf spots and leaves remain on the plant. American boxwoods are moderately susceptible. If one had it this bad, others would show leaf spotting and branch dieback.

Check roots and lower stem for planting depth, water issues, or radiant heat from the walkway. Garden hose irrigation may not penetrate deeply enough. Something other than boxwood blight is causing this plant's death."