Buxus Microphylla 'Japanese Ball'

• Native to Japan and Korea, this compact boxwood cultivar has been cultivated for centuries in formal gardens. The 'Japanese Ball' refers to its naturally rounded growth habit that requires minimal shaping.
• Features tiny, glossy dark green leaves that create an incredibly dense, fine-textured appearance. Mature plants develop attractive pale bark that adds winter interest to the garden.
• Extremely slow-growing and long-lived, making it perfect for formal hedges, topiary work, and structural garden elements. Can live for decades with proper care.
• Beloved by landscapers for its reliability, drought tolerance, and ability to maintain shape in various Australian climates from temperate to subtropical regions.

• Water weekly during establishment, then reduce to fortnightly deep soaking in warmer months. Check soil moisture by inserting finger 5cm deep before watering.
• Plant in morning sun with afternoon shade protection, particularly in inland Australian areas. Tolerates full sun in cooler coastal regions with adequate moisture.
• Use well-draining potting mix or garden soil enriched with compost and coarse sand. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain too much moisture around roots.
• Feed with slow-release fertiliser in early spring and again in summer. Light monthly liquid feeding during active growing season promotes healthy foliage.
• Prune 2-3 times per year to maintain ball shape, with main pruning in late winter. Light trimming in summer keeps form tight and encourages dense growth.
• Requires minimal humidity - suits most Australian conditions naturally. Avoid placing near heating vents or in windy exposed positions that cause leaf burn.

• Provide morning sun with afternoon shade protection, especially in hot Australian summers. Avoid full shade which causes loose, open growth habit.
• Water deeply but infrequently once established, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter months when growth slows.
• Maintain consistent moisture during first year after planting to establish strong root system. Mulch around base to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
• Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to maintain perfect ball shape. Light trimming throughout growing season keeps form tight and compact.

• Box blight can cause brown patches and defoliation - ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Remove affected foliage immediately and dispose in household waste.
• Scale insects may appear as small brown bumps on stems - treat with horticultural oil or systemic insecticide. Regular inspection helps catch infestations early.
• Root rot from overwatering causes yellowing leaves and stunted growth - improve drainage and reduce watering frequency. Ensure pots have adequate drainage holes.
• Leaf miner creates winding tunnels in foliage - remove affected leaves and apply neem oil spray. Maintain plant health to improve natural resistance.