Pocket Botanist
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Check these first
- Examine the undersides of leaves with a magnifying glass.
- Look for webbing between the stems.
- Check for small bumps or blisters on the leaf surface.
Likely causes
Boxwood Leafminer
Most likelyHow to tell: You will see small, blister like bumps on the leaves. These are caused by larvae feeding inside the leaf tissue.
What to do: Prune away heavily infested branches in early spring. You can also apply a systemic insecticide labeled for leafminers in late spring.
Spider Mites
PossibleHow to tell: Leaves look stippled or speckled with tiny yellow dots, and you might see fine webbing between branches.
What to do: Spray the foliage with a strong stream of water to dislodge the mites. If the infestation is heavy, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Find out what's wrong with your boxwood
The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
When to worry
Small numbers of pests are manageable, but heavy infestations can lead to significant leaf drop. Act as soon as you notice the first signs of damage.
Stopping it coming back
Keep your boxwood healthy with proper water and light, as stressed plants are more susceptible to pests.
Boxwood: pests? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your boxwood and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free
Questions people ask
- Can I use home remedies for pests?
- A simple mix of water and a few drops of mild dish soap can work for light infestations. Always test a small area first.
- How often should I check for pests?
- Take a quick look at your plant every time you water. Catching pests early makes them much easier to control.
Guides to these causes
More problems with Boxwood
- Why are my Common Boxwood leaves turning yellow?
- Why is my boxwood losing its leaves?
- What are these spots on my boxwood leaves?
- Why do my Common Boxwood leaves have brown tips?
- Why is my boxwood drooping?
- Why is my boxwood showing signs of root rot?
- Why is my boxwood growing leggy and sparse?
- Why are my boxwood leaves curling?
This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.