Should Boxwoods Be Covered In Winter

Boxwoods should be covered in winter to protect them from harsh weather conditions.
 
This is especially true for evergreen shrubs like boxwoods that can suffer from winter burn and frost damage.
 
If you’ve been asking yourself should boxwoods be covered in winter, the answer depends on your climate and the specific risks in your area.
 
Covering boxwoods in winter helps shield their leaves from drying winds and freezing temperatures.
 
In this post, we’ll explore why covering boxwoods in winter is beneficial, when it’s necessary, and how to do it correctly.
 
Let’s dive in so your boxwoods stay healthy all season long.
 

Why Boxwoods Should Be Covered in Winter

Boxwoods should be covered in winter primarily to prevent winter burn and wind damage.
 
These evergreen shrubs retain their leaves year-round, making them vulnerable to moisture loss when the ground is frozen.
 
Here are the main reasons covering boxwoods in winter is a good idea:
 

1. Protection Against Winter Burn

Winter burn occurs when boxwood leaves lose moisture faster than the roots can replace it.
 
Cold winds and bright winter sun cause transpiration, while frozen soil prevents water uptake.
 
Covering boxwoods in winter reduces the sun’s direct impact and slows moisture loss.
 
This is especially important for exposed plants in open yards or along fences.
 

2. Prevention of Snow and Ice Damage

Heavy snow and ice can weigh down branches, causing them to bend or break.
 
When you cover boxwoods in winter with a burlap wrap or fabric, you create a buffer that distributes the weight.
 
This helps maintain the plant’s natural shape and prevents long-term structural damage.
 

3. Shielding from Drying Winds

Winter winds are particularly harsh on evergreen foliage.
 
Covering boxwoods in winter blocks the wind and keeps the leaf surfaces from drying out.
 
Even a simple windbreak can make a big difference in how your boxwoods look come spring.
 

4. Temperature Moderation

Sudden temperature fluctuations stress boxwoods.
 
A cover traps a small amount of heat and creates a microclimate around the plant.
 
This helps boxwoods avoid the shock of freezing nights followed by warm daytime sun.
 

When You Should Cover Boxwoods in Winter

Not every winter calls for covering, but knowing when to act is key.
 
Here are the situations when covering boxwoods in winter is most important:
 

1. In Zones With Harsh Winters

If you live in USDA hardiness zones 5 or colder, you should cover boxwoods in winter regularly.
 
These zones experience prolonged freezes and strong winds that can seriously damage evergreens.
 
Even in zone 6, covering boxwoods during a polar vortex is wise.
 

2. For Newly Planted Boxwoods

Newly planted boxwoods haven’t fully established their root systems yet.
 
These young plants are much more susceptible to winter injury.
 
You should cover boxwoods in winter for at least the first two years after planting.
 

3. During Extreme Weather Forecasts

If a severe cold snap, heavy snow, or ice storm is predicted, covering boxwoods in winter becomes urgent.
 
A temporary cover for a few nights can save your shrubs from permanent damage.
 

4. In Exposed, Windy Locations

Boxwoods planted in open areas with no natural windbreak benefit greatly from covers.
 
If your garden is on a hill or near a large open field, you should cover boxwoods in winter every season.
 

How to Cover Boxwoods in Winter Properly

Using the right materials and technique is crucial for success.
 
Improper covering can trap moisture and lead to fungal issues or suffocation.
 
Follow these tips for covering boxwoods in winter the right way:
 

1. Use Burlap or Frost Cloth

Burlap is the most common material for covering boxwoods in winter.
 
It allows air circulation while blocking wind and sun.
 
Avoid plastic, as it traps moisture and creates a greenhouse effect that can cook the leaves on sunny days.
 

2. Build a Simple Frame

For larger boxwoods, create a teepee-like structure using stakes.
 
Drape the burlap over the frame so it doesn’t rest directly on the foliage.
 
When fabric touches leaves, it can freeze to them and cause damage.
 

3. Secure the Cover at the Base

Tie the burlap or frost cloth around the base of the plant using twine.
 
Make sure it’s snug enough to stay put in wind but not so tight that it constricts the stems.
 
Leave the bottom slightly open to allow some airflow and prevent excess moisture buildup.
 

4. Remove the Cover Gradually in Spring

Don’t yank the cover off as soon as temperatures rise.
 
Remove covering boxwoods in winter gradually over a week, giving them time to acclimate.
 
Watch out for late frosts and be ready to cover them again if needed.
 

So, Should Boxwoods Be Covered in Winter?

Yes, boxwoods should be covered in winter when conditions call for it.
 
Covering boxwoods in winter protects them from winter burn, wind damage, snow loads, and temperature swings.
 
New plantings, exposed locations, and harsh climates make covering boxwoods in winter a smart practice.
 
Use breathable materials like burlap, avoid plastic, and build a frame to keep the cover off the leaves.
 
By taking these simple steps, your boxwoods will emerge in spring looking vibrant and healthy.