Volutella Leaf and Stem Blight (Canker)

Boxwood branches die back with leaves turning light-green-yellow and tan, plus pink spore structures on lower leaf surfaces. Pseudonectria buxi fungus infects through wounds or winter injury. Prune out dead branches, remove dead leaves from crotches, and maintain good air circulation. Avoid high humidity and plant in well-drained soil. No resistant cultivars are available.

Prune out cankered branches at least six inches below visible symptoms, making cuts into healthy wood. Sterilize your tools between cuts. Canker pathogens typically enter through wounds, so minimize pruning injuries and avoid working on trees when bark is wet. Maintain tree vigor through proper watering and avoid stress from drought or compacted soil, which makes trees more susceptible.