This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Your boxwood leaves turning orange is a common sign of stress, but the good news is you can often fix it.
If you’ve noticed your once vibrant green shrub taking on an orange hue, you probably want to know why it’s happening.
Several factors can cause boxwood leaves turning orange, from winter weather to pests or even a lack of nutrients.
In this post, we’ll walk through the main reasons your boxwood leaves are turning orange and what you can do about it.
Let’s dive in and get your boxwood back to its healthy green self.
Why Are My Boxwood Leaves Turning Orange?
There isn’t one single answer to why boxwood leaves turning orange, but the most common causes are easy to identify.
Here are the top reasons your boxwood might be showing that orange color:
1. Winter Burn and Cold Stress
Winter is a major culprit when you see boxwood leaves turning orange, especially in late winter or early spring.
Cold winds and bright sun can dry out the foliage when the ground is frozen and roots can’t take up water.
This causes the leaves to dry out and turn an orange or bronze color, particularly on the side facing the wind.
The damage is often temporary, and new growth in spring may cover it up.
2. Fungal Diseases Like Volutella Blight
Fungal infections are another reason for boxwood leaves turning orange, and Volutella blight is a common one.
This disease causes leaves to turn orange or bronze and then brown, often with black spots on the stems.
Humid conditions and poor air circulation encourage Volutella to spread, making boxwood leaves turning orange a recurring issue.
If you see orange leaves with a pinkish spore mass in wet weather, it’s likely a fungal problem.
3. Root Damage or Poor Drainage
When roots are stressed, your boxwood shows it above ground, and boxwood leaves turning orange can be a sign of root trouble.
Waterlogged soil from heavy rain or overwatering can suffocate roots, causing leaves to yellow and then turn orange.
Similarly, root damage from construction, compacted soil, or transplant shock can trigger that orange color.
Check the soil moisture around your boxwood to rule out this cause.
Other Reasons for Boxwood Leaves Turning Orange
Beyond the big three, there are a few more factors that can lead to boxwood leaves turning orange.
1. Nutrient Deficiencies
A lack of essential nutrients like nitrogen or iron can cause boxwood leaves turning orange or yellow.
When the plant can’t produce enough chlorophyll, older leaves may turn orange before dropping.
A soil test can tell you if your boxwood is hungry, and a balanced fertilizer may green it up.
2. Spider Mites and Other Pests
Tiny spider mites suck sap from boxwood leaves, leading to a stippled, bronze-orange appearance.
If you see fine webbing or tiny specks moving on the leaves, mites could be causing your boxwood leaves turning orange.
These pests thrive in hot, dry weather, so keep an eye out during summer.
3. Sunscald or Leaf Scorch
Intense afternoon sun, especially when reflected off a wall or pavement, can scorch boxwood leaves.
The burned areas turn orange or brown, often on the side closest to the heat source.
This is more common in newly planted boxwood or after a heavy pruning that exposes inner leaves.
How to Fix Boxwood Leaves Turning Orange
Once you’ve identified why your boxwood leaves are turning orange, you can take steps to treat the problem.
1. Prune Damaged Branches
For winter burn or fungal issues, prune out the orange or dead branches to improve airflow and reduce disease spread.
Make clean cuts back to healthy wood, and always sanitize your pruners between cuts if you suspect disease.
Wait until spring to prune winter damage so the plant has time to recover.
2. Improve Drainage and Watering Habits
If poor drainage is causing boxwood leaves turning orange, amend the soil with compost or plant in raised beds.
Water deeply but less frequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Mulch around the base helps retain moisture without waterlogging the roots.
3. Control Pests and Diseases
For spider mites, spray the leaves with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap.
Fungal problems like Volutella can be treated with a fungicide labeled for boxwood, but prevention is best.
Keep the area clean of fallen leaves and avoid overhead watering to reduce humidity.
4. Fertilize and Mulch
A slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants can help if nutrient deficiency is behind boxwood leaves turning orange.
Apply in early spring and again in late summer, following package directions.
A layer of organic mulch protects roots from temperature extremes and retains moisture.
So, Why Are My Boxwood Leaves Turning Orange?
Boxwood leaves turning orange are most often a sign of environmental stress rather than a permanent problem.
Winter burn, fungal disease, or root issues are the usual suspects, but nutrient deficiencies and pests can also play a role.
By identifying the specific cause in your garden, you can take simple steps to restore your boxwood’s health.
Monitor your plant through the seasons, and remember that many cases of boxwood leaves turning orange resolve on their own with proper care.
Now you know what to look for and how to help your boxwood stay green and thriving.