An Evergreen shrub for sunny balcony.

I have a balcony facing south onto a large open atrium in Philadelphia. I would like a low maintenance plant that is green in the winter and do well in a 15 inch pot in the winter outside. I am considering a Justin Brouwers boxwood or an Arborvitae Danica. What would you advise? Thank you!
The temp could hit 95 on really hot days. Winter sun will cause swings in temperature for the roots in winter. Which plant could tolerate these conditions better?

Answer

When planting boxwood, consider your year round climate. If temperatures become extremely hot in summer, boxwood plants will appreciate afternoon shade and regular watering. Water deeply, as frequent, shallow irrigation will not reach the root zone of the growing boxwood. Until established, after about two years, boxwoods will need at least weekly watering.

When planting boxwood, locate them in an area that is protected from winter wind to avoid a condition called winter bronzing. Plant at the same level they were planted at the nursery or in the container. Planting boxwood too deeply can lead to stress and possibly death.

- See more at: http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/boxwood/boxwood-care.htm#sthash.R1YwJUQv.dpuf

You have chosen two superb selections.  The Justin Brouwers boxwood is a handsome plant, one of the best compact, mounding to rounded cultivars on the market.  It is sun-tolerant, although some shade is preferred but not required.  It has a  slow to medium growth rate,and is suitable for containers.  Its  small leaves have excellent deep-green winter color. It responds very well to pruning. But even when unpruned, it develops into a beautiful plant.  A caution, though: it needs well drained soil, otherwise it responds poorly. The Danica is also a lovely compact plant with a nice round globe shape, which doesn't require trimming or pruning to maintain its shape. The color is emerald green in summer.  It turns slightly golden/bronze/green in colder weather.  It likes full sun, but will accept part shade as well. In either case, if the temperature becomes too hot in the summer, some  afternoon shade would be good if possible. In general, water deeply and regularly, and protect from winter wind.  I might prefer the Danica; it seems a bit easier to maintain, and it has some more interest, I think, than the Justin Brouwer.   You can't go wrong with either one, though.  Enjoy whichever one you choose. 

When planting boxwood, consider your year round climate. If temperatures become extremely hot in summer, boxwood plants will appreciate afternoon shade and regular watering. Water deeply, as frequent, shallow irrigation will not reach the root zone of the growing boxwood. Until established, after about two years, boxwoods will need at least weekly watering.

When planting boxwood, locate them in an area that is protected from winter wind to avoid a condition called winter bronzing. Plant at the same level they were planted at the nursery or in the container. Planting boxwood too deeply can lead to stress and possibly death.

- See more at: http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/boxwood/boxwood-care.htm#sthash.R1YwJUQv.dpuf


When planting boxwood, consider your year round climate. If temperatures become extremely hot in summer, boxwood plants will appreciate afternoon shade and regular watering. Water deeply, as frequent, shallow irrigation will not reach the root zone of the growing boxwood. Until established, after about two years, boxwoods will need at least weekly watering.

When planting boxwood, locate them in an area that is protected from winter wind to avoid a condition called winter bronzing. Plant at the same level they were planted at the nursery or in the container. Planting boxwood too deeply can lead to stress and possibly death.

- See more at: http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/boxwood/boxwood-care.htm#sthash.R1YwJUQv.dpuf
  • Last Updated Jan 08, 2019
  • Views 79
  • Answered By Aska Gardener

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