As many of you know, Saunders Brothers Inc. supplied over 400 top-quality boxwood, including 350 NewGen Independence® for the 2020 Rose Garden renovation at the White House (but you may not be aware that Saunders Brothers also provided 1,500 boxwood for the original 1962 design during the Kennedy administration). Bennett was invited back in late May to assess the condition of boxwood on the grounds.
After passing through security checks, we joined White House grounds and horticultural staff on an inspection of the new planting where Independence® anchor and define the beds lining the lawn. We are thrilled to report they look fantastic – kudos to the hard-working staff for their outstanding care!
As the day warmed up and cicadas buzzed in the background, we also toured the multitude of boxwood plantings throughout the grounds. Bennett discussed spray schedules and shared other maintenance tips with the staff, and diagnosed issues with some older boxwood. Many have been in place for 50+ years while others are more recently planted. We appreciate the opportunity to assist these dedicated horticulturists who strive to balance the new with the profoundly historic. All in all, an amazing morning in D.C.!
As photography of any structure (and most everything else) was prohibited, Holly was allowed only a quick iPhone close-up of the planting. Check out the healthy, glossy new growth on NewGen Independence®! The roses were also filling in and interplanted with pollinator-attracting perennials and annuals.