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Digging up boxwood shrubs requires careful planning and the right technique to protect the roots and ensure the shrub survives the move.
If you’re wondering how to dig up boxwood shrubs without damaging them, you’ve come to the right place because the process is straightforward once you know the steps.
Whether you are transplanting a shrub to a new spot or removing it entirely, knowing how to dig up boxwood shrubs properly saves you time and effort.
In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about digging up boxwood shrubs, including the best tools, timing, and common pitfalls to avoid.
Let’s get into it.
How to Dig Up Boxwood Shrubs: The Right Approach
When you learn how to dig up boxwood shrubs, the first thing to understand is that these shrubs have shallow, fibrous root systems.
That means digging up boxwood shrubs is easier than digging up deep-rooted plants, but you still need to be gentle.
Here are the key steps to follow when you dig up boxwood shrubs.
1. Prepare the Shrub Before You Start Digging
Water the boxwood thoroughly a day or two before you plan to dig.
Moist soil holds together better and reduces transplant shock when digging up boxwood shrubs.
Also, prune back any dead or damaged branches to lighten the shrub and make it easier to handle.
2. Mark the Root Zone and Dig a Trench
Use a shovel or spade to mark a circle around the shrub about 12–18 inches from the trunk for every inch of trunk diameter.
This gives you a good root ball size when digging up boxwood shrubs.
Dig a trench around that circle, angling the shovel slightly inward to cut roots cleanly.
3. Lift the Root Ball Gently
Once the trench is deep enough (about 8–12 inches), work the shovel under the root ball and pry upward.
How to dig up boxwood shrubs here is all about patience: don’t yank the shrub by its stems.
Instead, lift the root ball with the shovel and ask a helper to slide a burlap sack or tarp underneath.
4. Transport and Replant Quickly
Wrap the root ball in the burlap or move it into a container.
Keep the roots moist and shaded while you prepare the new hole.
If you’re transplanting, dig the new hole twice as wide as the root ball and at the same depth.
When Is the Best Time to Dig Up Boxwood Shrubs?
Timing plays a big role in how to dig up boxwood shrubs successfully.
Digging up boxwood shrubs at the wrong time can stress the plant and reduce its chance of survival.
Early Spring or Late Fall Are Ideal
The best time to dig up boxwood shrubs is in early spring before new growth starts, or in late fall after the shrub has gone dormant.
Cooler temperatures and higher moisture levels help the roots recover faster when you dig up boxwood shrubs.
Avoid Hot Summer and Frozen Ground
Digging up boxwood shrubs in midsummer heat can cause the roots to dry out quickly.
Similarly, frozen ground in winter makes it nearly impossible to dig up boxwood shrubs without breaking roots.
Stick to mild weather for the best results.
Common Mistakes When Digging Up Boxwood Shrubs
Even when you know how to dig up boxwood shrubs, a few missteps can still cause problems.
Here are the most common errors to avoid.
Cutting the Roots Too Close to the Trunk
If you cut the root ball too small, the shrub may not have enough feeder roots to survive.
When you dig up boxwood shrubs, always leave a generous root ball diameter.
Forgetting to Water Beforehand
Dry soil crumbles away from the roots, leaving them exposed.
A well-watered shrub holds its root ball together much better when digging up boxwood shrubs.
Leaving the Roots Exposed Too Long
Boxwood roots dry out fast in open air.
Once you finish digging up boxwood shrubs, get them into soil or water within a few hours.
So, How Do You Dig Up Boxwood Shrubs Successfully?
How to dig up boxwood shrubs comes down to preparation, proper technique, and good timing.
Digging up boxwood shrubs is manageable if you water ahead, dig a wide trench, lift with care, and replant quickly.
Remember to choose early spring or late fall for the best results and avoid cutting roots too small.
With these tips, you can dig up boxwood shrubs confidently and give your shrub a great new home.