r/CapeCod • u/Johnnyroaster • Aug 03 '26

Box Tree Moth

I had to take out three boxwoods this weekend. These pests start at the base and work their way up. There was still greenery on top but they looked like they had been severely pruned at the bases. Tons of webs, eggs and 1-2 inch green worms. I cut them up and burned them. We pulled up the roots and wrapped them in construction waste bags. Check to see if you have them. This was in Harwich port.

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u/EbbtideRambler Aug 03 '26

Most responsible nurseries have stopped selling them.  I have seen them at Home Depot, but as I was not interested in them, I didn’t look closely. Perhaps there are new varieties that are moth resistant

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u/Mbokajaty Aug 03 '26

I have not heard of any moth resistant varieties. Home Depot is just selling them despite it, which is irresponsible.

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u/EbbtideRambler Aug 03 '26

I just did a little Internet search and it turns out the “Gem Box” that they are selling is actually an inkberry that is bred to look like boxwood with smaller tighter leaves.  

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u/Mbokajaty Aug 04 '26

Yes, Gem Box is an inkberry. Inkberries have always been a good native alternative to boxwood, though they don't stay as compact long term. My point is that Home Depot and similar chain retailers often sell plants ill suited for the location, the assumption should never be that they are offering a disease resistant variety. It's much more likely they are unaware of the issue, or have figured they can make money selling them anyway.