Box Tree Caterpillar.

[Tilly2]

Today I have had to cut down four very well established and trained box trees as they have been blighted by the box tree moth caterpillars.

I still have the biggest and the best to do. It's such a shame.😢

Can anyone suggest a replacement plant that is easy to shape and can withstand creepy, crawly caterpillars?

[Canary42]

Privet possibly. 

[Tilly2]

Privet seems a bit old fashioned and boring but thanks for the suggestion.

[ferlew]

What about Lonicera Nitidia, it's very accomodating to being shaped.
I used to 'cloud prine' mine.

[Auntypoll]

Why can't you spray to kill the caterpillars?

[barry1010]

I like red robin for hedging

[Tilly2]

That Lonicera seems to be just the ticket. Thanks for that suggestion, Ferlew.

Auntypoll. I don't use chemicals in my garden. I did use nematodes in the Autumn but the infestation was too great.

[Auntypoll]

Just my opinion but I would rather use a chemical spray and save a tree. There are also non chemical alternatives to get rid of caterpillars, I've used them to remove an infestation on a small willow tree.

[Buenchico]

This, from the RHS website, might be useful:
https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/types/shrubs/box-alternatives-how-to-choose

[Chipchopper]

I totally agree with the Lonicera nitida alternative, I have a variety named baggersons gold (I think) and it literally glows in the dark, easy from cuttings too.

Great wildlife puller also.