Is My Garden Doomed? The Tiny Invader I Never Wanted To See

In this video, I'm facing a serious challenge: the dreaded box moth has invaded my garden. Join me as I take you through the battle against this persistent pest and explore the steps I'm taking to protect my beloved boxwood plants.
This invasive pest can strip the leaves from a boxwood in a matter of days. The threat from this invader is serious and realistically, I’m not sure this is a battle I can win.
🌿 *Topics Covered:*
Identifying box moth infestations
Effective box moth control methods
What happens if I lose the battle?
🐛 *Key Points:*
Box moth (Cydalima perspectalis) has become a significant threat to gardens worldwide, and I'm determined to save my boxwood hedges from this tiny but destructive invader. I'll share my experiences, tips, and strategies to help you keep your garden safe and thriving.
Learn more about box moth on the Michigan State Extension website
www.canr.msu.e...
Stay tuned for more gardening tips and adventures. Happy gardening!
Thanks for watching.
🌿 Blog: gardenmoxie.com/
🌿 Instagram: / gardenmoxie
🌿 Pinterest: / gardenmoxie
📩 [e-mail]
#gardening #zone6a #BoxMoth #GardenPestControl #BoxwoodCare #OrganicPestControl #InvasiveSpecies #GardenMaintenance #GardeningTips

[@ecogarden3622]

I live in Poland. This pest has been present in Europe for years. For me, sprinkling the bushes with flour (regular kitchen flour, it may be out of date) is effective. The pest eats flour, swells and dies. I do this whenever I notice small webs or dust (white flakes) falling from the box bushes. Dust means that the caterpillars will hatch in a few days. Webs mean that the caterpillars are starting to feed.

[@dianaford9040]

Love this idea

[@lindamurns1245]

Wow, thanks!!!!!

[@janyshendrickson3833]

Thank you for the info re: flour. I first saw a problem last year. The garden centre reconmended a couple of different organic sprays, but confessed they felt I would loose the battle. They were correct, the boxwood hung on last season, but I lost the majority of them this year.

[@ecogarden3622]

@@janyshendrickson3833 In our country they also said the same thing at the beginning and many people gave up, but the Polish character tells us to fight difficulties to the end and now we are winning. I will say more: in addition, nature started to help us. When the birds saw the dead caterpillars, they started to eat them. At first reluctantly, later timidly, because they did not know them, but after a few years I see that some species have learned to hunt the pest. I do not know if you have sparrows in America. Currently, during the breeding season, they like to eat the box moth. We leave them containers of water by the box, so they come more often.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much for sharing your experiences. How wonderful to have someone from Poland. That is so cool!

[@idwerk]

I have good news: I have been successfully keeping those caterpillars and moths at bay for about 8 years with that solution and a regular pump applicator just like the one you have. You don't have to worry about completely saturating your boxwoods with the solution. Just a quick spray over the top and sides and a quick spray into the plant will do it. I've saved my long hedges around my front garden and about 10 bushes in the back. My neighbors have gotten rid of most of their boxwoods but there's really no need - that stuff works great and it doesn't bother the pollinators or small lizards who live in our gardens.

[@GardenMoxie]

Wow! You have given me hope. Thank you.

[@skigirl2112]

That saying from your Dad had me in tears. With everything that everyone has been through these past few years that was the perspective I desperately needed to hear. For so many, our gardens are our place of refuge and sanity. So sorry for the garden challenge you are facing now. Heartbreaking for so many reasons. Wishing you peace Sue.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much for your heart-felt words. I am grateful you shared them. I know my Dad would say..."you can build something even better". So that is what I'll focus on if I lose this battle. One day at a time, right?

[@dianesgardeninspiration]

Your garden is so beautiful! Sending you positive vibes 🌻🌻🌻

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much. So far the BT appears to have worked. Now I just need to be vigilant.

[@debbieripley4790]

😅I am so sorry to hear this. I have box blight so I am in the process of removing the plants and replacing with yew. That way I am maintaining the look of the garden and I can do this in sections so it's not breaking the bank nor my back

[@GardenMoxie]

I am sorry to hear about your boxwood blight. That is no easy thing to deal with. It sounds like you have an excellent "Plan B". I wish you the very best.

[@janna6847]

Oh dear. I'm so sorry to see this for you and your garden. I live about 2 hours east of Toronto in rural Ontario. Our local garden center advised me against planting any boxwoods. They sold me some Hick's yews instead. I'm making a hedge with them and they're doing great so far. I'm also planting globe cedars (which I will keep pruned for size) to achieve the ball shapes that I want as well. Best of luck with your moths! I've heard that spraying with dormant oil in the early spring can also help. I'll be rooting for you!

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you. I love Hick's yew. It makes a great hedging plant. The deer in my area absolutely love it too (unfortunately). Thanks for watching.

[@lynnpurse]

So so sorry to hear this, Sue. I remember watching Monty Don and other British gardeners struggling with box blight, which is devastating when it forms so much of your garden structure. I'm wishing you the best outcome on this battle!

[@pansepot1490]

Monty Don is set against spraying. Good horticultural practices (like airflow, no over fertilizing, no overwatering, etc.) and a couple of preventative treatments with copper (a product which is used in organic farming) can save boxwood from blight. I have seen an interview with head gardener of a large historical estate in the uk who had managed to keep the miles of boxwood hedges in very good condition. I understand the low effort gardener who doesn’t want to bother, but I understand less taking dogmatic anti spraying stances from gardeners that spend their lives manipulating nature. If I had been in Monty’s shoes I wouldn’t have let my boxwoods die without a fight.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you. I also followed along when Monty Don removed his boxwood. And look how amazing his new garden looks already. That is a very encouraging thing to focus on.

[@lynnpurse]

@@GardenMoxie It is indeed encouraging. Many years ago, I was frustrated with my first garden and considered tearing it all up and reworking everything after 12 years. My American friends were aghast but my British friends said "of course, we do that all the time, every garden changes and needs reworking." I moved the following year so not much changed there, but I always remember their calm matter-of-fact response. I am currently gradually changing 70% of my plantings to experiment with native plants and new planting styles and I find gardening exciting once more in my 70's. Whatever happens with your boxwood, the possibilities for your garden are endless and dreams do evolve.❤

[@GardenMoxie]

@@lynnpurse You are so right!

[@shimmyhinnah]

Dear Susan, Thank you for making this difficult video! I’m at similar crossroads with my boxwoods deciding to go ahead and use Bayer systemic first which has worked previously my garden but maybe I’ll switch to your product by the ending of your video! It is a disquieting choice due to all of my beloved pollinators. Once all the pruning of affected branches and really good cleanup around all of them I’ll then apply directly to the roots. Painful choice for those of us who never wanted to take this non-organic route. It is difficult when the boxes are the main structure/bones of the garden that holds everything beautifully together. 😞

[@lindas5964]

Yes the boxwoods are so important! I noticed someone mentioned inkberry which looks similar also Yew might work.

[@pansepot1490]

BT, the product mentioned in the video, is “bacillus thuringiensis”. It’s a parasitic bacteria that infects the caterpillars and kills them. It may take a few days so it’s better applied at the very first symptoms when the caterpillars are very small. So it’s perfectly organic and AFAIK it’s harmless for pollinators and anything that is not a caterpillar. But it’s not systemic: useless if applied to roots.

[@GardenMoxie]

The BT is actually not bad for pollinators and should only affect the caterpillars. The caterpillars ingest it when it is sprayed onto the leaves. You have to stay on top of watching for the caterpillars. I hope the BT works. Thanks for your note.

[@kristywhited8857]

Wow! So sorry to hear you are dealing with this. I had never heard of box moth, so I appreciate you brining this to our attention. I'm only a couple of states away, so I will be on the watch for this pest. Boxwoods make up a large portion of my garden too. I had come to the conclusion that boxwood was a no fail plant. Sun or shade, deer don't bother them, low water and fertilizer needs. Such an easy plant to grow. My heart is aching for you!

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you friend. I know what you mean. I love boxwood. They look great and deer leave them alone. The perfect plant...Ugh!! Thanks for your note of encouragement though. I appreciate it.

[@JenBLibertyImages]

Ugh, I am so sorry to hear this! Best of luck eradicating the moths. It is lovely to see so many people here offering suggestions and even alternative plants, though. A bright spot after a frustrating discovery.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much. Gardeners are so wonderful with the way they share their knowledge. Another of the many reasons I love gardening. We have such an awesome community. I am grateful for the suggestions.

[@musiktouches]

Bummer! Good luck with the battle. I like you dad's saying.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much. I appreciate your kind note.

[@kimdowhaniuk1855]

Oh, no!! I'm so sorry, that you are going through this. My neighbor, here, in Southern Ontario, Canada, has only recently finished ripping out the last of her boxwoods. It was heartbreaking to see. Best of luck with saving them.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much. I was not happy to find those caterpillars. We will see how this ends.

[@lindas5964]

Oh goodness this is frustrating for sure. I also struggle with (different) pests and diseases in my southern garden and I’ve noticed over the years that certain pests wax and wane each season. My experience with pesticides is that they don’t really eliminate the problem, merely help the plant to hang on until the pest population begins to decline naturally. Perhaps the bird population will increase in response to this invasion, but obviously an increase in the predator takes time to respond to the increased food availability. Anyway, much luck to you. I think if you are diligent you’ll be able to save your boxwoods. For what it’s worth, I have adopted a philosophy of removing a plant if it seems it’s an ongoing struggle and really in the end it’s for the better. The garden looks better (healthier) and I’m less stressed from the reduced war effort. 😊

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you. I love your outlook on gardening. You sounds like a very wise gardener indeed.

[@dawndawn6946]

Oh, Sue, I am so sorry! Stand your ground.❤

[@bunnyfrancis7006]

Oh the pain!! We all feel it. We all are with you. The work of the devil . .. .. damn. Be as strong as you can . Plan on paper a new garden . Be in a calm mood while planning .....Floods took my yard and garden joy THREE times. I was faced with an expensence I could not deal with. But I need a garden and trees for me mental health....honestly do. I came up with a much less costly plan. took awhile but it finally dawned on me. I begged some help with the labor. Then I set out on a path that has taken 2 years, hugh amount of my labor, gallons of tears cause of limited budget, deviding plants, moving plants, loosing plants , rethinking and rethinking it all over and over during the whole time. The yard is now safe . And my "south garden" is a joy for all. My friend said just think you wouldn't have that if the floods hadn't come . I live for my garden, the birds and my garden kitties. It's a great expense for me to feed the animals but we all live here in this peaceful place we all created that is our home. I choose to cut down here and there so we all have our Joy , Peace and calm home. Maybe this is just another wonderful garden oppertunity. I hope. You and I both beat cancer........we got this. Sending much love , good thoughts and prayers . Honestly.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much for the kind note. I appreciate it!

[@romapotter6803]

I've left a comment on another of your videos regarding this pest.I'm in Kent,Southern England and I gave up the unequal struggle with box moth: spraying: caterpillars picked off by hand and midnight moth hunts with my homemade sweep net. It's an unending futile struggle. Neighbours buying box shapes for instant garden looks dont clip them and are completely unaware of this pest and dont treat it even if they notice it. I've replaced all my box parterre ( some of which was over 30 years old) with Ilex Crenata ( Japanese Holly). Box moth will give you all the trouble you want and more: be pragmatic and look on it as a refresh for the garden and look forward to your replacement plants coming into their own. Best of luck to you and your beautiful garden.

[@GardenMoxie]

I'm sorry to hear about your experience. I am afraid mine will likely be the same. I am going to try BT this season and see how it goes. Thanks for watching.

[@shelleymolinaro5866]

Oh Sue, I am so sorry. I love how strong and rational you are in this video. I know there were probably some tears shed in private. All of your gardening friends are standing with you. You may not have to redesign everything. A replacement for the boxwood may do the trick. Dwarf Yew plants? Sarcococa? I am not sure if those work in your zone. You are resiliant and resourceful. You Got This Sue! Much love from Portland Oregon.♥

[@carolrose4784]

Best luck possible!

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much for your kind words of encouragement Shelley. I did cry once. I was feeling quite sorry for myself the first day. But then I realized I just need to approach this like any engineering problem and come up with a game plan.

[@patriciacasey6767]

I'm optimistic!!! If the Bt is working, even if you have to apply it several times, it surely will be effective!! Hoping the best for your beautiful garden!!

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much! I hope you are right.

[@dedewarren]

Oh Sue, I hate this for you! This is every gardener’s worst day… finding some thug in our precious garden. I could hear the pain in your voice. You’ve got the right mindset though and I’m cheering you on whichever way this goes. Unfortunately I think all of us will face invasive pest at some point, you might just be showing us all how to get through it.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much for your kind note. I think you are right about our challenges, but nature is tough. That is know for sure, right? Happy gardening!

[@josefalawson3049]

Good luck, Sue challenges come to every task we do. I have a large garden, and I spend more time fighting the elements.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks for the words of encouragement. I wish you the best too. Thanks for watching.

[@jennifersauer3257]

I am so sorry you’ve been exposed to this kind of challenge. I’ve heard and read about this invasion, but haven’t learned of any local infestations. But our region is quite dry and warm and windy. It’s good to know Bt will provide some measure of control - unlike what I’m facing right now - juniper blight - for which there is no solution/treatment. I’ve begun to think that we must be very thoughtful about how we arrange/design our gardens to be sure we aren’t overloading it with one species to the point of creating a mini monoculture. I’ll be hoping you won’t have to remove ALL of your boxwood! Peace

[@teresab6502]

You are spot-on about overloading a garden with one species. There is a popular KZbin gardener that I used to follow and she planted dozens of boxwoods. I shake my head because it seems so risky.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you. This is a great lesson about planting too much of the same thing. I know better, but I did it anyways. That will teach me, right? There is never a dull moment in the garden. That is for sure. Thank you for watching.

[@bernadette1510]

Sue, stay positive. You have a very keen gardener eye to spot any trouble with your plants. You started the treatment early on and it seem to be very effective. I think a monthly application will help with protecting the boxwoods. There is also a recommendation of setting the pheromones traps to trap male moths. Your father’s advise could not be more true not only for gardening challenges, but also for what we are faced with in the world! Thank you for sharing your troubles.

[@GardenMoxie]

Hi Bernadette and thanks for your kind note. I hope all is well friend.

[@Tuckerz5d]

Thanks for sharing this experience. I live in rural upstate New York and box is a very big part of my garden’s design. I’ve been living in fear of these pests for years. Although I was considering extending a box wood hedge I have been growing for many years, I decided not to purchase any new box plants that might introduce disease into the existing garden. Otherwise I’m just keeping my fingers crossed and hoping that my rural location further isolates me from the problem. Thanks again.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks for watching. You have a great idea to hold off introducing any new boxwood into the garden. Especially with blight. I hope these pests avoid your area. Happy gardening!

[@hectorestey2140]

How discouraging but boxwood is quite resilient so all may not be lost. Your video is a real eye opener: I assumed the damage would first appear on the outer edges of the plant but this video shows how the inside can be heavily infested while the outer edges are relatively untouched. Thank you and good luck.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much and thank you for watching.

[@christinapunch8458]

i'm so sorry to see this happening in your lovely garden! crossing my fingers for you!

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much. The BT seems to have done a great job with the first set of caterpillars. Now to learn the life cycle and try to stay on top of things.

[@ChrisTinaShoemaker]

GOODLUCK With the Battle you are facing...😓 sending hugs.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much. I was not a happy camper when I found those caterpillars.

[@GardeningSpirit]

So sorry to hear about this for you. I admire your attitude!

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much and thanks for watching.

[@klk12399]

So sorry you have to deal with this pest. Looking forward to watching how you deal with this issue. If nothing else, it's a good teaching moment for the rest of us.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you. This really is a great teaching moment. That is a great way to look at this.

[@johnhollister3]

Thanks for this important information. After watching your video, I learned that Rutgers University has issued a Box Moth advisory for New Jersey where I live, so I'll be on the lookout to safeguard my boxwoods and will use your method to get rid of the caterpillars if necessary. You have such a beautiful garden and hope to see updates soon on your battle with the Box Moth.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much and good luck. I hope all is well there in NJ.

[@elizabethmellone4465]

Oh my gosh! Good luck. I hope you win the battle. What a beautiful garden you have.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much and thanks for watching.

[@lennoxtoppin1038]

Thank you for sharing this video! I was on a garden tour this weekend, and we were discussing our favourite garden channels, and I mentioned yours specifically because of how “real” it is. I’m in Hamilton, Ontario, and I first noticed signs of the boxwood moth last year. And my sentiments were the same as yours. I also had no qualms using BtK, because many years ago a farmer whom I trusted and respected had suggested using Bt to help save my kale - worked wonders. And it’s worked just fine on my two large boxwoods.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you and thanks for sharing your conversation with that farmer. Happy gardening!

[@kooale]

You're a remarkable individual & your gardens look great! Hoping you can beat that beast!

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much!

[@RomayneFrament]

My heart is breaking for you. Fingers crossed, hands together, that you can beat these invasive pests. Please keep us posted. 💚

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much and I will definitely keep everyone posted. I appreciate your kind words of encouragement.

[@PeggyMills]

I’m sorry to hear this, Sue. Your gracious attitude is no surprise. I see many possible solutions in the comments, and sure hope the answer lies in one of them. Excellent advice from your dad 🙏

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks Peggy. I am encouraged by the success with the BT. My only issue is that it is expensive. But I am not going to get too far ahead of myself. Thanks so much for being here and sending me your kind note.

[@wendyshanahan2652]

So sorry to learn you have the box moth. I'm an hour west of Toronto and have battled this the last 2 years and this spring was so inundated with the caterpillars that there was no going back. I had to take my 12yr. old, 30 ft. long hedge out. Terrible job and the caterpillars climbed out of any hole of the bags used to dispose to the trash, not waste recycle. Some parts of the hedge I just sawed off at the base as I was tired of digging out the roots. I planned on digging out the rest when the summer heat goes...but. There are new shoots coming on some of them now. I am debating whether to see if they return or just be done with the problem. The garden has opened up without them and, frankly, I don't want to invite the pests back. Luckily they only attack the boxwoods. Wishing you good results in your battle.

[@GardenMoxie]

Ugh! I don't envy your experience there in Toronto. I am very sorry that you needed to remove your hedge. I completely know how you must have felt. Someone in the comments mentioned how Monty Don replaced his boxwood and his new garden space is just incredible. I will try to use that as inspiration if this situation turns bleak. At this point, I am mentally preparing for losing the battle here. Thanks for watching.

[@lisamorris4232]

What a heartbreaking discovery. We truly feel for you and hope you can win the battle. Many gardeners in the UK are switching over to Ilex Glabra Gem Box holly which looks very much like boxwood. But, that would also be a huge undertaking. Hang in there, Sue!💪

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much for sharing a recommended box alternative. I know the UK has been battling for a while. As you say...we just need to hang in there. That is an excellent approach. Thanks for watching.

[@debradawson3051]

Oh Sue, what a shame! I’m replacing my hollies with boxwood due to deer. Boxwood blight has been a concern so I check for that on a regular basis. This year my three Green Velvet box looked stressed and all have leaf miner. The arborists who care for our large trees identified it and made a plan to treat after they finished blooming. Unfortunately, when treating for leaf miner the plants become more susceptible to mites, so that has to be taken in to consideration also. I garden in Zone 7b, Virginia and always look forward to seeing your garden.

[@pansepot1490]

Use BT. In my experience mites is a side effect of some synthetic insecticides that kill indiscriminately mite’s natural predators.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you. I hope your Green Velvet boxwood recover. They are a beautiful boxwood for sure. Deer are the reason I started with boxwood. It is nice to find something they won't eat. Thanks for watching.

[@susandenniscook9271]

Oh Sue! I sure hope and pray that your beautiful boxwoods can be saved. Your garden is so pretty and I cannot imagine e having to start over with the design!! Please keep us posted on the progress either way BT.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you. I will definitely keep you posted. One day at a time....that is my new motto.

[@Antarctica2025]

Wow! never heard of this one! Thank you, I will have to be on the look out.

[@GardenMoxie]

I am glad the video was helpful. Thanks for watching.

[@BertiesGardener]

Sadly I know the feeling too well. My box hedges and topiary were devastated last year here in central UK . For me, trying to fight back was just too much...in effort, time and £££s. Many local gardens were affected so this was a significant impact locally. So ...I removed all of the buxus and used the opportunity to introduce changes to the plant material and the design features in my garden. This year, the garden needs time to mature, but it has been a great challenge to think differently and I hope that I now have a more sustainable garden for the future as a result, with more diversity for local wildlife. Whatever happens, I wish you the best for your efforts. Things usually turn out for the best one way or another😊❤.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much. You sound very much how I am feeling right now. The first application of BT was very expensive and took a lot of time to complete. I am not sure it is practical. I am going to try to fight for now, but I am getting my mind around the fact that I need to change this up in the future. Thank you for sharing your experience. I appreciate it.

[@BertiesGardener]

@@GardenMoxie big girl knickers on still ?😕 A couple more things from my experience to date... When I thought about it, the main things buxus gave to the garden were sculptural forms and small hedges for framing the garden. With this in mind I looked at all manner of plants with new eyes. Although none have all the attributes I loved from buxus, there are some interesting alternatives. I'm particularly loving the idea of topiarising hornbeam. Look up garden designer Arne Maynard for inspiration.🙂 I wish I had started cuttings of the alternatives sooner eg yew, euonymous, sedum. I'm catching up now.

[@GardenMoxie]

@@BertiesGardener Thanks for sharing your great insight. I will be taking your advice and checking out Arne Maynard. Thank you for sharing that.

[@peggy1844]

Hope you don’t lose all your boxwoods but if you do I am sure you will make lemonade out of the lemons. When you said you will just put your big girl pants on if you need to I knew you could rise to the challenge. There is a message in those words that is needed in our society today. Thank you

[@GardenMoxie]

Ahh...thanks so much Peggy. I appreciate the encouraging words. Happy gardening friend!

[@chriss6356]

I’m so sorry that this is the first video of yours that I’ve come across. Your gardens are absolutely stunning. BT is the best pesticide there is for grubs and caterpillars. It rarely harms beneficial insects because they have to consume the foliage that it is sprayed on to be affected. The only downside is that BT treatments are extremely expensive and labor intensive because it doesn’t persist. You’ve got to spray consistently for weeks to make sure there is no re-emergence.

[@GardenMoxie]

I know what you mean about the BT. That is why I am not sure I will win this battle. The first application cost me over $60. That is a lot of money. And supply and demand is sure to drive the prices higher. I will have to see how things go. Thanks for watching and thanks for sharing your experience.

[@FlowerPatchFarmhouse]

Sorry for your struggles. It is sad when something we have worked so hard on and like as is, will have to be changed. I hope it doesn't come to that. Your father is a wise one, and it is a motto I hold to myself. But sometimes it is easier said than done. 🐛

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks friend. You are right about it sometimes being easier said than done...but one day at a time, right? Thanks for watching.

[@Lorraine-zm9ey]

So sorry Sue. You have created a beautiful garden & overcome challenges before. You'll doubtless overcome this one too. Here in Ireland I've chosen Holly Box/Japanese holly "ilex crenata". Looks like box but is resistent to both box blight & box moth. I wish you the best of luck with your challenge/opportunity.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you so much! I have looked at the ilex crenata. It's a beautiful shrub. Thanks for the suggestion.

[@MartinHouseFlowers]

Oh no, I'm so sorry! I'm originally from Toronto too. We're 10 hours from Toronto, in Northern Illinois. I only have 7 boxwoods along my front walkway. Although, I did have to replace a few of them this spring, as they didn't overwinter. I remember when you received your first load of boxwoods as you designed your Versailles garden. My thoughts and prayers are with you as you go through this incredible challenge! Stay positive! 🙏💚

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much. I remember that load of tiny baby boxwood....it seems so long ago now. What a great day that was. I appreciate your kind words and thanks for following the garden. I'll keep you posted and I will definitely stay positive. Happy gardening friend!

[@christykulwicki4323]

I’m so sorry Sue! Looks promising and with regular treatment you might win. Especially if you have a really cold winter. Keep that garden log in detail. God luck!

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you! That is a great idea to keep better notes on this too. Thanks for the suggestion. I am a terrible garden note taker...ha ha.

[@kritomoralea]

Oh no! I am sorry to hear this! I hope you can save your boxwoods bushes.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much. I will be sure to share the saga. Thanks for watching.

[@urchinsushi2041]

Oh my goodness, I have been blissfully unaware of the box moth until now - I can feel your distress as boxwoods are also the bones of my garden, esp in the backyard where I have a large lovely brick and flagstone patio lined with countless boxwoods that have grown together to make a beautiful border we can enjoy all year round. Thank-you so much for posting your video, it is good to be prepared, at least emotionally for the inevitable invasion. I really haven’t had time to fully process this, but I did a quick search on KZbin and noticed that birds will eat the box moth caterpillars - I have so many birds that we enjoy in my backyard, with my fountain and feeders (use sunflower hearts and chips, no mess) and trees, so maybe making our gardens more attractive to birds will help, at least a little? Btw, I’m in northern virginia

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks for sharing what you have read. I was unaware that any birds here would eat the caterpillars. I adore the birds in my garden. I appreciate you leaving a note. Thank you.

[@audramacbeth2969]

So so sorry to hear you are dealing with this pest.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you and thanks for the kind note.

[@judybrock5360]

I too live just west of Toronto. Box moth on the radar for me first time this year. I have a lot of box, not as many as you and was so upset as I had just dealt with leaf minor in one hedge of box, now this ! As you are aware , the hatch 4 times per year. I have used BT very successfully on 2 hatches so far and encouraged by excellent results. I too struggle with not harming any good bugs, but find I place the nozzle right into the box and spray avoiding any residual aerosol drifting into garden So far so good, but wonder how long we can all keep this up as the caterpillars have no natural predators. PS. Don’t wait to purchase BT ASAP , it is cheap , once word got out of the infestation in our area. , it was toilet paper /pandemic situation all over again ! 😮. Back ordered everywhere and price on Amazon if you could get tripled at least ! Good luck Sue, we can do this !😊

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks! You made me laugh with the toilet paper reference. You are SO RIGHT! Ugh. That stuff is crazy expensive.

[@joannereinauer7532]

So sorry you are dealing with this problem. Thank you for sharing, I will be on the lookout for them. I already dealt with boxwood blight. Not fun. 😢

[@GardenMoxie]

Ugh! Boxwood blight is terrible. I am sorry to hear that. Thanks so much for being being here.

[@Marisol6975]

Sue, Im so sorry this has happened to you. I can’t even imagine what it must feel like. Earlier on in the season the dept of agriculture came to Lowe’s and inspected all of our boxwood we had for sale. Because we are in the quarantine area we had to pull all 144 boxwoods in various sizes from the selling tables. We had just gotten a shipment and that morning I had set them all up. After the inspection we had to remove them all, bag them and discard them. I didn’t even own them and I was disheartened so I can imagine what it must have felt like when you discovered them in your yard. We are not allowed to sell them at all. Not sure what will happen moving forward, but we won’t be selling them until the dept of agriculture says it’s safe to sell them. Hopefully you will be able to get a handle of them and they won’t become to much of a problem. At least you were able to notice it in time and get to them soon. Sending you good vibes and positive thoughts.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you. I am also sorry to hear about your experience. They have come back for round #2. I do not expect I will be able to really manage them and eventually, I expect the boxwood to get pulled. I'll try this upcoming season to see how things go. That Bt is expensive to buy. It just seems so wasteful. Good luck!

[@marielynemartel3423]

OMG ! I feel for you 😢. The problem with this scenario - applying BT (and I'm sure that like you said and you realize it already) is that every year your going to have the same problem. But we're hoping for a miracle and it doesn't come back. But if it does, I think the only thing to think is that it is an opening for something new, for creating a brand new garden, turning a disaster into another magical place. I wish you the best of luck 🥰

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you. I share your exact realization about this moth. This pest is not going away.

[@Blake.Cooper]

Boxwood are expensive and grow slowly. I'd be breaking out any spray I needed to to save my space. It's the backbone of my garden. Good luck!!

[@GardenMoxie]

I hear you! Thanks for watching.

[@Blake.Cooper]

@@GardenMoxie Love your channel!

[@GardenMoxie]

@@Blake.Cooper Thank you!

[@alliehamilton-calhoun162]

You've put so much into making something beautiful. It's so frustrating that so often beauty has to be intentionally created, but destruction comes along so easily. I appreciate that you don't want to harm anything else that calls your garden home. In central IL, I'm plagued with Japanese beetles. They destroy everything. I gave up this year trying to save my garden. There's only one of me and millions of them. Then I noticed that the birds who live in my yard have been voraciously gobbling up the beatles. The damage wasn't nearly as bad this year. During the spring and summer, most baby birds can only eat insects, and caterpillars are their most nutritious food source. My tomato plants are attacked every year by hawk moth larvae, but they usually get predated upon by wasps and don't survive to maturity, or the cardinals swoop in and pick them off. You need some predators for those nasty boxwood bugs. It would be a great help If you could add a water feature and attract dragonflies; they'd get those moths before they could even lay their eggs. Good luck, I hope you win in the end!

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much and thanks for sharing your gardening wisdom. Nature is utterly amazing, isn't it?

[@bluesky7226]

Bt is a good choice, Sue. Don't give up!!❤ we have grasshoppers in plague proportions this year. Very difficult to eradicate because of the choices available and I live on prairie. They eat practically everything! My poor pollinators are fewer this year.😢

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you. My friend Cheri in CO has been battling grasshoppers and sharing her experiences. That is tough! They are incredible eaters. I'm sorry to hear you aren't seeing as many pollinators. That is not good. Take care friend!

[@MikeSkrywnostny]

I am very sorry to hear, that this happend to you. I am from Slovenia and here we have same problem with caterpillars and box moth. I had to replaced every boxwood bush. My mother found very similar bush - ilex crenata. I have it for 3 years and gives very nice hedge and it is very hardy. I hope you will keep all of yours bushes.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you for sharing the plant you are using to replace your boxwood. I am sorry you had the same situation. Thanks for watching.

[@CathyF-hw1jh]

Thanks for this valuable message…I’ll be on the lookout in central NY

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks for watching. Happy gardening!

[@gardeningonthewestforkwith8994]

Im heading to my garden and checking my boxwoods I only have 12 . Your information was so helpful to help me identify this invasive species, Sending good vibes that you have gotten on top of these caterpillars early.!!

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much. I think it helps to keep your eyes peeled.

[@lesliebennis1834]

Ohhhh Sue! I am soooo sorry. I have some boxwood but nowhere near as much as you have. Thank you for showing us all how to stay positive in the face of possible doom. In case you do lose them, Linda Vater has talked on her channel about a new boxwood called BETTER BOXWOOD resistent to disease. I pray yours makes it 🙏

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you and thanks for sharing Linda's tips on the new boxwood. I appreciate that.

[@janeyann8316]

Your garden is so beautiful. I had never heard of this moth, though my tiny, high-walled patio has a lot of roses that get attacked by aphids, which are farmed by ants. I also get another weird kind of aphid on my miniature violas, which quickly kills the violas once they appear, though violas do come up from seed every year. A bit last year, and a lot this year, house sparrows have started appearing in the patio, searching among the roses bushes for aphids and eating them. For some reason we never get seagulls or cats in our patio, so the little birds feel safe, but it is strange that they only started to come here after I collected a lot of roses, some miniature, some climbers, some shrubs. The house sparrows are so tame they appear when I am outside tending the patio, they will fly right up to me. They like something to perch on. I need to research if there is anything they need that I can provide for them, maybe a decorative bird bath, but I would need to keep it scrupulously clean or it wouldn't help the sparrows. There must be birds that would eat the moth caterpillars destroying your beautiful garden? And things you could plant to attract them? I know, things are never that simple and some of these pests can break your heart.

[@janeyann8316]

This is only a guess, and my only knowledge is from observation and bits I have read, but some of my miniature rose bushes have tiny bright red flowers, "Peter Pan" (12 inches tall by 12 inches wide). Right now they are full of flowers. I read somewhere that birds are attracted to red flowers, though apparently bees are not. The house sparrows seem to love them.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much for the encouragement. Your patio garden sounds like a slice of heaven. I absolutely love birds. And they eat so many insects that help us gardeners, don't they? So wonderful. Thanks for watching.

[@BeauReveBus]

Sending the biggest hug possible your way! It’s So disheartening

[@GardenMoxie]

Hey! Thanks for those hugs. It is a bummer because I know how this story is going to end (not to sound negative). I'll keep everyone posted.

[@yanniem]

So sorry this has affected your garden as well. I live in Toronto and feel your pain. 😢

[@GardenMoxie]

My good friend lives in Toronto and has been warning me that things are not good there. I am very sorry for you as well.

[@levans3447]

What a beautiful garden!

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much.

[@beckysteffka2434]

I've heard of this moth and have been waiting and on the lookout for them. I live a few miles west of you, Sue, so I'll be out in the garden checking for them again. I have a couple of boxwood hedges. Thank you for the BT info, I'll get some to have on-hand, it's inevitable that I'll get them too.😢

[@GardenMoxie]

Definitely keep your eyes peeled. I found the BT at English gardens in West Bloomfield. They were very knowledgeable about the pest. The good thing about BT is that is targets the caterpillars and won't hurt out pollinators.

[@beckysteffka2434]

​Thank you for the info! I dislike using any type of peaticides, but I think I'll use this when it comes down to it. I have about 18 boxwood, and I can't even think what I'd replace them with! ​@GardenMoxie

[@emmalavenham]

Hi Sue - I would not panic here. This is not the blight this is the box moth. Species-specific traps are available for the male moths. And, entomopathogenic nematodes are available that can zero in on the moths at the larval stages - products from companies like the one Laura works with (Capsanem). Now that you have the caterpillars - Bt. But you can then start implementing the above strategy which is designed specifically to target these pests and it would be considerably easier, and you can feel good about it. I would consider researching that - particularly studies in UK Do I grow box? No. But what I can share is that winter moths are now gone in my area because of a controlled release of a natural predator - a tachnid. This kind of strategy really can be effective and it is for me the first strategy I would try given it’s integral into the design

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much for sharing this valuable information. I also appreciate the encouragement. Thanks for watching.

[@maryk.n3766]

The moths just “ came over the bridge” and landed on Cape Cod MA this Summer. Appreciate your video and realistic thoughts on this latest pest invasion. I just got brave enough to plant a few new boxwoods after the viral issue from a few years back; glad I didn’t purchase more than a few.

[@GardenMoxie]

I am sorry to hear they landed in Cape Cod. That is a bummer. I am also glad you didn't buy a lot of boxwood. We gardeners are going to adapt for sure....which we will. Thanks for watching.

[@Bandaid17]

It’s so sad to think that your boxwoods are susceptible to this much damage. I know in the UK they have had other pests decimating their boxwoods and have been replacing them with newer varieties with more vigor. IDK if it resists the same pest you are dealing with. As to Bt; I have invested in a battery operated sprayer (for deer spray) and it works well. When mixing the concentrate of Bt be aware that some preparations only last 24 hours.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks for the tip on the BT. I did not realize that so I will need to educate myself more. Thanks for the tip.

[@wbflowersvt]

Ugh, the sort of discovery no gardener wants to make! Thanks for such a helpful and informative introduction to this garden pest. Do you think inkberry might be a possible option for you if the boxwoods have to exit? What zone are you in? I'm wondering how long until it makes its way to Southern VT zone 5b. 🚫

[@GardenMoxie]

I am in Zone 6A. The gentleman at the garden center told me that box moth has been in Michigan for 3 years. I am just seeing it now. He also said some areas have it and others haven't seen the pest yet. Hopefully it won't find you there in southern VT.

[@doubles1738]

Oh great. I had to take out all my lilies due to lily beetles. Looks like I’ll be removing my boxwood too😢heartbreaking 💔hope your garden recovers

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you. I dug up all my lilies for the same reason. I got so tired of collection those darned red beetles in jars of soapy water. I never seemed to get on top of them so I just removed all my lilies too. Bummer. I am sorry you had to do that.

[@KACn5582]

Oh no!!!!! 😭 it's been so crazy this year!! I have been battling invasive lily beetles all season and I may end up removing all my lilies. I love gardening but it can be heartbreaking sometimes.

[@GardenMoxie]

Ugh! I am sorry to hear you have lily beetle. I removed all my lilies a couple years ago because I couldn't manage them. They have moved to my solonomn's seal and I am picking them off in the mornings. Good luck friend!

[@emkn1479]

So sad 😢 I just started using boxwood since it’s one of the few things the deer won’t decimate (they rip small twigs off, but they don’t eat the whole thing) during winter, plus I love that evergreen look. I also have tough soil in shady spots and they tolerate it well. I agree with trying Bt, if only to stop the pest from spreading out from your garden. I hope the plants make it! Maybe some extra water can help them along.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you for your kind note. I love boxwood for the same reason. They are one of the few things that stay evergreen in winter and don't get eaten by deer. That is a brilliant combination indeed.

[@MaxwellHolmes]

Love this one particularly !

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you and thanks for watching.

[@patriciamcgonigal2688]

What a shame but you have a good plan and a great attitude!!

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you and thanks for watching. I appreciate your kind words of encouragement.

[@heathermacdonald6404]

Sorry Sue! How disappointing. I am dealing with Japanese beetles. They are decimating my garden. They seem to developing a broader palate. Heartbreaking! Good luck, gardening friend.

[@elizabethsolomon2864]

Last year we (Mount Airy,NC) were inundated w Jap beetles. They were a very small nuisance this year but did noticed they ate other plants/ trees than last.

[@GardenMoxie]

Sorry to hear about your japanese beetles. They are big eaters too. Thanks for watching.

[@jenniferhooks2454]

I am so sorry your boxwoods have been invaded by the box moth. Is this a pest that you report to your extension service, sort of like with boxwood blight? It would be a shame to lose your boxwoods, but sadly bad things happen in our gardens. I lost all my big trees to a tornado related to a hurricane. I went from a shady backyard to a full sun backyard through an act of nature. At this point, you treat your plants and see what happens. Good luck in your beautiful garden.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much. I am sorry to hear you lost your trees. That is terrible. I reported the moth to the DNR, but I think they have been tracking my area for a few years now based on my chat with the garden center representative. Good luck with your garden too.

[@roseofsharin]

That's heartbreaking! We seem to get a lot of nasty things from Asia. Hopefully, you will win this battle.

[@judybrock5360]

But many more beautiful things ! 😊

[@roseofsharin]

@@judybrock5360 hmm not so much

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much and thanks for watching.

[@dustyflats3832]

Wow, as if there isn’t enough to tend with! I use Jacks dead bug, but never dealt with boxwood moth. I’m worried about lantern fly as it made it to IL. Last I heard MD was dealing with it. The great thing is boxwoods bounce back! I once chopped mine down to nubs and it came back beautifully.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks for the words of encouragement. Lantern fly is a very serious threat to the fruit growers. The DNR is rightfully concerned about that pest too. It has been spotted in Michigan and has the ability to destroy the apple industry. It's very serious. Ugh! One day at a time, right?

[@lindylou3519]

Wow! I’m sure those caterpillars will eventually move down south. Linda Vater talks about a Better Boxwood that just came out this year & she invested in them but I think they are only blight resistant. If you have to spray your boxwoods every year to keep them from those awful caterpillars, then it might be better to replace them, but I’d fight like crazy for a couple years. You have a beautiful design. (I don’t own a single one here in GA. I pulled all of my 25 yr old boxwoods up from the front of the house. They looked awful. Never have been a fan.)❤

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you. I'm not thrilled about having to spray, but I think I will try to fight this pest at least for the next couple seasons (if my boxwood make it that long). It will be interesting to learn the life cycle and figure out if it can be managed. Thanks for watching and thanks for sharing your experience.

[@ytubechannel997]

Sorry to see this is happening to your garden. I will no longer plant more than a few species of each plant when I design new gardens. In this way, if there is a pest or plant disease that becomes prevalent, I won't lose a huge number of plants or destroy the design of the garden. I am also worried about insects becoming resistant to Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) as more gardeners make use of it.

[@GardenMoxie]

You bring up such a great point. I think having a variety of different types of plants is a great idea. Of course, you look at my garden and I am saying one thing and doing another...I love those boxwood because the deer won't touch them. I am going to need to find alternatives moving forward. Thanks for sharing your wisdom.

[@ladylyonteeth3952]

Aww.😢 I’m so sorry, Sue. Heartbreaking. 💔 Can you get a couple of the newfangled blight resistant boxwoods and see what happens? Perhaps over time, you can replace some of yours with those. I wish you luck.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks for the well wishes. I'll keep plugging away. This moth will eat any kind of boxwood. Blight resistant or not. And they eat so fast!

[@ladylyonteeth3952]

@@GardenMoxie oh man! Do they devour those little soft touch holly shrubs too? I admire your calmness. I think I would go nuts tearing everything out, hitting everything else with a flame thrower or something. I so hope a solution comes, so things can turn ‘round. BIG fluffy hugs to you. Sue.

[@GardenMoxie]

@@ladylyonteeth3952 Thank you. The box moth stays pretty much concentrated on the boxwood so at least I can focus my efforts.

[@norfolkenchants8090]

Norfolk U.K. - I’ve had box caterpillar for the last 4 years and although it returns each year, through trial and error I have discovered the following routine works in making the plants look healthy. Caterpillars overwinter and reappear every April so I then trim and shape the box and collect all the clippings on sheets tucked in below. The clippings are alive with whole and damaged caterpillars. A week after clipping I spray thoroughly with Topbuxus XenTari. The box will get a second spray (but no trim) when the next generation of caterpillars appear in July/August. The box topiary then looks lush, healthy, smart and undamaged throughout the winter.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you for sharing your experience. You gave me a ray of hope today. For that I am grateful.

[@stephaniemaddalone5290]

Best of luck with this undertaking.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much and thanks for watching.

[@marygailnelson7024]

All I can say is I'm so sorry. Thank you for showing us what to do in case we are hit with the boxwood moth.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much. Happy gardening and thanks for watching.

[@SpanishEclectic]

Oh, that's horrible! Your borders and topiaries look so wonderful. I have heard about box blight for the last few years from gardeners in France and the UK. There is a new resistant variety, but what a pain to replace everything. Here in the SO CAL heat we mostly use Japanese Boxwood (Buxus microphylla), which has larger leaves and is not as attractive for sculpting, but seems resistant to this pest. Hopefully you have gotten ahead of the problem, and the B.T. spray will keep them at bay. This year (we had more rain than in the last ten) the rose slugs (sawfly larvae) have been the worst I can remember. I'm removing the damaged leaves and finally broke down and bought an organic spray after it became clear the birds were not keeping up. When something like this happens, no matter how frustrating, I try to remember that farmers for centuries have lost their livelihoods from such infestations, and we can still get our vegetables at the market.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you. Things like this really make you appreciate how hard it must be to farm. At least I am not earning a living from growing the boxwood. Such a great perspective.

[@Al-ImprovEd2022]

Sorry to hear that Sue. I have 2 tiny boxwoods and wonder if I should remove them? They’re healthy now but is it inevitable…. I’m in N.C.

[@GardenMoxie]

The good news is that the box moth only eats the boxwood (and some euonymus) according to what I have read. So...your garden should be safe. And who knows...the man at the garden center was saying that even here in my area some cities have issues and others don't have the pest at all.

[@jennifer-threedogsinagarde8265]

I have the same problem here in the Toronto area so I can relate to your feelings.

[@GardenMoxie]

Ugh! I am sorry to hear that. BTW -- I absolutely LOVE your blog. It is so good! I just noticed your user name. Your garden is stunning. Are you able to use BT is Canada?

[@jennifer-threedogsinagarde8265]

Thanks for the kind words about my blog. I miss it sometimes. I have not even posted to Instagram of late. I watched your previous video about buyer’s remorse and was sorry to see you didn’t have good luck with Monarda fistulosa. It’s one of my favourites. It doesn’t wander as much as the red one does and the pollinators love it. I haven’t had the powdery mildew issue though. I am sure that would be discouraging. I wonder if you placed it somewhere else? I have read powdery mildew occurs most often when a plant is stressed. Monarda does like a regular source of water. That could also be a reason for problems. I did see a few people recommend the Monarda ‘Purple Rooster’ and agree it’s a good alternative. As to the organic bt spray I am not sure if it is available here. I was tempted to try the flour idea one commenter suggested. Couldn’t hurt! I have one boxwood hedge in the back of my garden. It deters the dogs from bounding through the flowers beds and helps made a messy tangle of perennials look a bit more tidy. And the hedge is years in the making! Like you, I’d hate to lose it!!

[@GardenMoxie]

@@jennifer-threedogsinagarde8265 Thanks for the great suggestions. I agree that it is likely that monarda is getting too much water. I don't think it is in the right place. I have to confess I miss blogs. Instagram isn't the same for me in terms of gardening. You created a beautiful blog and garden. Well done friend!

[@bill8985]

Interesting video. I hope that works for you. Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens) is not native in the US. My wife and I have some on our property, but I am thinking of removing them pre-emptively, solarizing them to dry them out - and then burning them (as it is now illegal in my state to remove them from your property except by special license i.e. to prevent inadvertent distribution of the bad moths.) There are other native plants that could be good candidates to replace them (in my region, I'm thinking maybe Ilex glabra or verticillata - which can be trimmed and trained to amazing effect - as well as being more useful for native pollinators.) Best wishes.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much for sharing your recommendations. I appreciate your input.

[@bill8985]

@@GardenMoxie We all need to share our ideas. I've subbed your channel. Happy gardening!

[@GardenMoxie]

@@bill8985 Thanks so much!

[@mdorn6592]

In CA and OR (I've noticed the most) is a huge movement to release predatory beneficial bugs that eat the pest and its larvae...I know garden answer's latest (today) piece talked using this method...good luck...even with this pest your boxwoods still look good, but I know time is of the essence

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks so much for the insight. I appreciate you sharing that.

[@mdorn6592]

@@GardenMoxie The person who I mentioned in the above comment links her sources in her description box, and has done a couple other presentations on this topic you might find in her content library that are helpful as well

[@GardenMoxie]

@@mdorn6592 Thanks so much!

[@RedCoin91]

Here in Europe, we have had them for years. They destroyed beautiful boxwood gardens, I've seen huuuge boxwood hedges being destroyed in matter of weeks. People don't buy boxwood anymore, we all go for boxwood alternatives Good luck!

[@GardenMoxie]

Yes. I think the days of boxwood in gardens is likely coming to an end. At least in larger numbers. It is amazing how quickly those caterpillars eat a boxwood. I was astonished. Thanks for watching and sharing your experiences.

[@erkocab]

good luck!

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you!!

[@_M_N]

So sorry to hear about this threat to your garden. I’m in southwest michigan and in the beginning phase of a backyard landscaping project and had 32 boxwoods planned for the design. I’m wondering if I should scrap that idea and try something different. Japanese Holly? I’d be open to anyone advice or opinion. I already have quite a few boxwoods in the front yard so it would double my workload when this pest arrives.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you. I would definitely think about boxwood alternatives. The Japanese holly would make an excellent choice. Definitely talk to your local garden center for suggestions. I fear this pest will only get worse as time passes.

[@MrsB_734]

Maybe if you loose them you can replace many of them with small round arborvite. As I'm sure you know, there are many small varieties. I forget the name, but I have a 30"x30" and it's my favorite. I can picture them used and shaped like boxwood.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks for the suggestions. I appreciate you watching the video.

[@garykandmimisgarden1662]

Just watched your video. Although I can't (yet) relate to box tree moths in zone 9a, I can give you some hope. Your plant is only as health as its root system. I have cut 30 year old box absolutely to the ground and they grow back quite fast. So in terms of the box recovering you are probably OK. Unfortunately as one ages, you will find trimming box is a long-term commitment and I have begun replacing with mine other shrubs/plants that don't require trimming. My beds once lined with box look equally as nice edged with liriope which requires no maintenance(once established)

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks for the great suggestions. I appreciate you sharing your experience. Happy gardening!

[@JoAnnBlondin]

Hi Sue. Well if 2018 is when they were discovered in Toronto, it explains why I lost two boxwood last year. I sprayed Friday with BT as every single one i have is hosting theses pests. Fingers crossed it works. Ugh

[@GardenMoxie]

Ugh is right Jo! I hope the BT works for your friend. Not fun.

[@CeciliaPMiniatures]

I've been painstakingly removing them manually from my seven boxwoods for some weeks this spring, then gave up and pulled all the plants out. In Italy boxwood moth has been present since 2006 I think but in the past years I've never seen it in my garden, although I was very aware that I could eventually find it, since it's present in my area. If I have to spend an hour every day searching for the stupid moths in every plant, I'd rather spend this time watering, deadheading, weeding and cleaning up

[@GardenMoxie]

I know how you feel. That is why I am not sure I will decide to keep fighting the inevitable. For now, I will spray BT. But like you, I do not want to spend all my time in the garden dealing with pests. Thanks for watching.

[@greenthumb8170]

Hello neighbor! Clarkston, MI here.

[@GardenMoxie]

Hi Clarkston. I'm always happy to meet another Michigan gardener. Great to have you here.

[@JWallywiz]

How devastating :( I have always stayed away from planting boxwoods because they seem to take the brunt of nature is so many ways.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you. I think you are right. It's really all about finding the right plant for the right place for sure.

[@dianaford9040]

Big bummer. So sorry for you. I wonder how people using inorganic products to grow green lawns, kill other pests etc has decreased the population of box moth predators? I stopped using a lawn service that advertised as organic bc of this fear, wrote to corporate to get more info on its products and haven’t heard back. ☹️

[@GardenMoxie]

Thank you. When I started reading through the list of recommended things to use for the box moth, I knew if BT didn't work, they could have the boxwood. I'm trying to adopt a do no harm (at least as much as possible) attitude. Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@quick9smitty511]

So sorry to hear about your boxmoth problem. I have a friend in Windsor, Ontario that lost an entire boxwood hedge, and my sister in Toronto has them as well. I have one boxwood that is looking very sparse, but upon examination I don't see any signs of the boxmoth being the problem. I did pick up some Safers BTK. Do I spray it on all my boxwoods as a preventative, or do I wait until I see proof that they are infested?

[@GardenMoxie]

Hi. I am not an expert, but from the information I have read, I am not aware of a preventative action and for me, I try not to spray if I do not have to which is why I am focused on the caterpillars and using BT. The caterpillars eat fast and a ton so if you miss them, they can have a terrible impact on your boxwood. I recommend speaking to your local garden center or an extension office for their recommendations for your area specifically. They are always very helpful. Thanks for being here.

[@TheMillennialPlantDad]

Fascinating.

[@GardenMoxie]

Thanks for watching.