Topiary

Topiary is the practice of pruning trees or shrubs into a defined shape. To many people the word topiary brings to mind the picture of shrubs trained in the shape of birds and animals (pic 2) such as those at Disney World, however, any shrub closely clipped to maintain a definite shape can be considered topiary. Although it takes work and time to shape and maintain topiary, it is a rewarding hobby which allows for creativity and individuality in the garden.

Matius, a friend of Julius Caesar introduced topiary into Rome where it became fashionable and the practice was carried throughout the empire. After the fall of the Roman Empire there was no longer time to train topiary and the practice died down. It was revived briefly and sporadically during times of peace until its extensive use during the Golden Age of Topiary which began in the 16th century and lasted over 150 years. By the end of the 18th century the widespread use of topiary declined due to loss of popularity and high maintenance. Although many topiary gardens were destroyed some still remain in England today. The influence of topiary in English gardens can be seen in the early American gardens in areas where boxwood grew well such as those recreated in Williamsburg.

Yaupon holly, Eugenia, ligustrum (pic 2), azalea, Italian cypress, podocarpus, pyracantha and upright junipers may be used for topiary in Florida if you have the time and patience to train them. A more rapid technique is to train a vine over a form so that it looks like topiary. Two basic methods can be used. Climbing vines such as ivy can be trained over a hollow chicken wire frame. The plants are planted at the base of the frame and trained over it. Creeping vines and ground covers such as euonymous can be trained over a form made of hardware cloth filled with sphagnum moss. The plant will root and grow into the moss, therefore, it is important to water the moss as well as the pot or ground the plants were originally planted in. With both methods it may be necessary to first build a basic frame of pipe and then cover it with chicken wire or hardware cloth. The length of time required to achieve a finished 'topiary' depends on the size and number of plants you begin with as well as the size and simplicity of the design.

Although topiary is an old art it can be used in many modern landscapes. Basic geometric designs such as solid or divided pyramids and standards with one or more balls of leaves fit well with most architecture styles. Combinations of abstract styles as well as open pompom style topiary enhance many modern landscapes. The use of topiary in an entry gives the visitor something to look at while they are waiting for you to answer the door. A potted topiary placed on the patio often looks good even if a topiary would look out of place in the yard.