For now, winter is in full swing and the frosts are not letting up. However, it is worth considering planting new plants in the garden now. Finally, in spring, garden work will start in full swing.
This time we will focus on a specimen that is perfect for a low hedge. We consider it an alternative to the popular boxwood. It is less demanding because it does not need to be protected against. Get to know the Chinese drywood.
At first glance, the Chinese drywood looks like a boxwood. It is characterized by small, shiny leaves of an intense green color. They are densely distributed on the plant and its shape is compact.
Due to its great similarity to classic boxwood, Chinese drywood can be its substitute. However, we consider it a better choice due to its resistance to boxwood moth. Therefore, we will not have to prevent or combat this pest.
The Chinese drywood is evergreen, so it does not shed its leaves in winter. Therefore, it decorates the garden all year round.
This specimen grows evenly and densely, so it is suitable for hedges and perennial beds. It is also worth planting it on the borders of flower beds, along paths and driveways.
We can give it various shapes, thanks to which we can successfully create a French-style garden with geometric plants.
Chinese drywood, like boxwood, tolerates pruning well. After this treatment, it thickens quickly. It grows to a maximum height of 100 cm, so it is especially suitable as a low hedge. Moreover, it will not cover the plants nearby. You will create wonderful garden compositions with them.
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The Chinese drywood is planted in spring or autumn in a sunny or slightly shaded position. It will also do well in the shade, but in such a place its shape will not be as compact.
It prefers fertile, permeable and moderately moist soil with a slightly acidic or neutral reaction. If we want to create a dense hedge with this plant, we leave a distance of 30-40 cm between the seedlings.
The Chinese drywood is resistant to both periodic drying and frost. However, it is worth protecting the young specimen for the winter, especially in colder regions of the country.
In the first year after planting, water the plant regularlywhile in subsequent years we often do it only during a long-term drought. We recommend using organic fertilizer or compost in spring to accelerate growth and improve the condition of the bush.
Of course, we can prune it as we like, several times during the season. Pruning is best done in early spring and summer.
