Green Velvet Boxwood Winter Bronzing in Chicago: Protection Plan

Cause: Winter Desiccation on North-Facing Exposure

South-facing yard means boxwoods face north—cold, windy side. Winter sun and wind dry out foliage, causing bronze/yellow discoloration.

Immediate Winter Protection

1. Apply 3-inch mulch of leaf mold or compost.
2. Install windbreak: stakes 1 foot from hedge, green netting taller than plants, secured at bottom, middle, top.

Spring Recovery

• Check for green growth low on stems.
• Trim dead tips back to live wood.
• Water well and feed with half-strength liquid fertilizer, increasing as growth resumes.

Long-Term

Consider a permanent windbreak or relocating hedge to a less exposed site.