Question
I planted about 45 Green Mountain boxwoods on either side of our front walk on the east side of our house last spring.  They thrived last summer and came through our Pittsburgh, PA winter nicely.  Unfortunately, three plants started to look dried out and dying a few weeks ago and now a few more are starting to show the same signs.  There is no pattern to which ones are going bad and the rest of them look fine so far.  I have watered during this summer's brief dry spell and applied a systemic insect killer similar to isotox two weeks ago.  This was done out of desparation even though I did not see any evidence of insects.  Please tell me if these plants tend to behave this way and if there is anything I should do to revive the sick ones and protect the healthy ones.  Thank you!

Answer
John,
There are two possibile problems- Boxwood leafminer or transplant shock.
To treat for leafminer, you will need to treat them in the early spring with a systemic insecticide- these insects live and feed inside the leaf tissue. To check for this pest, take one of the leaves and break it open- if it is hollow, then that is the problem.
I feel that theyare going through transplant shock. Fertilize them well with a low nitrogen granular fertilizer and maintain good watering. Make sure you have an adequate bed of mulch (2-3 inches) and protect them through the winter months with burlap enclosures.
Good luck.
Ed Gulliksen