Boxwood Blight Research: What's the BBIG Deal?

Chuan Hong • July 18, 2021

The Boxwood Blight Insight Group (BBIG) is a team of scientists working together on an USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture – Specialty Crop Research Initiative (SCRI) project, in partnership with stakeholders and international collaborators. Learn how this transdisciplinary team aims to safeguard boxwood—the nation’s #1 evergreen ornamental shrub crop—from blight disease.

Presented by Chuan Hong, Professor, Virginia Tech

View Powerpoint

Share This Post

A close up of a bush with lots of green leaves.
By Dr. Kong March 14, 2025
It is neither economically sustainable nor environmentally acceptable to make multiple fungicide applications to protect boxwood, a key nursery crop and iconic landscape plant, from boxwood blight.
By Nina Shishkoff, Plant Pathologist with USDA-ARS February 10, 2025
By Dr. Fulya Baysal-Gurel May 30, 2024
This educational session aims to equip nursery producers, gardeners, and plant health professionals with vital knowledge and strategies to combat the pervasive threat of Calonectria pseudonaviculata, the fungus responsible for the devastating boxwood blight. Boxwood blight, a serious concern for the horticulture industry, jeopardizes the health and viability of boxwood plants, significantly impacting the ornamental plant market. Addressing this issue, the webinar will delve into the critical control points in nursery production, emphasizing effective sanitation practices to prevent and manage the spread of this disease. Attendees of the webinar can expect to gain: An understanding of the lifecycle and spread of Calonectria pseudonaviculata. Insight into the latest research and developments in boxwood blight control. Practical guidance on implementing effective sanitation and preventive measures in nursery production. Strategies for identifying critical control points to mitigate the risk of boxwood blight in their operations. This webinar is essential for anyone involved in the cultivation, care, or management of boxwood 
Show More