Good plant, mediocre results — what went wrong with my Boxwood

Boxwood is clearly a great plant — I can see that from other people's results. Mine has been decent but not spectacular, and I think I know why.

I underestimated the importance of mulching around the base annually to feed and retain moisture in the early stages and paid for it. dieback from harsh winters on marginally hardy varieties also knocked the plant back at a critical point. It lives in a wildlife garden with berrying and nectaring shrubs which is probably not quite right but it's the best I can do in my space. permanent woody structure providing year-round garden framework is visible but muted. early spring flowering on bare branches before leaves appear gave me hope — there are glimpses of what it could be. Three stars for now with potential for four.