Topiary is a fantastic way of adding evergreen structure to the garden and dates back to the times of the Romans who had a special slave called a topiarius to maintain their topiary. Topiary was popular all through the Middle Ages, in Renaissance Italy, in 17th Century France — and now again in the 21st Century.

Topiary is the art of cutting trees and shrubs into ornamental shapes, so creating living garden ‘sculptures’. Topiary makes an impressive statement in any garden, either formal or informal, traditional or contemporary. Topiary can be used as individual specimens, in groups of matching or contrasting shapes, or even interspersed in mixed informal planting to provide accent points.

Traditionally, long-lived plants such as yew (Taxus), bay (Laurus nobilis) and box (Buxus) were used for topiary but many more plants can be trained as topiary — including Photinia, Ligustrum and some conifers. Plants can be trained into a wide range of shapes from balls and cones to spirals and animals, not forgetting the stunning Japanese cloud pruned topiary.

Pruning Topiary

The frequency and timing of pruning of topiary differs according to the type of plant (see plant information overleaf) - but, with the exception of very complicated shapes, is not as difficult as it looks! Take time when clipping and shaping, and stand back frequently to check for discrepancies. Work from the top down and from the centre outwards, moving from side to side to check the balance.

Maintenance of Topiary

In the Spring, weed, feed (with a slow release fertiliser) and mulch all topiary. Water as necessary, particularly in dry spells. All topiary that is clipped regularly requires generous feeding and watering, particularly if planted in containers. Brush off any snow in winter to avoid the splaying out of branches. Most topiary prefers full sun.

Clifton Nurseries offers a wide range of topiary which differs according to availability but which usually includes the following favourites: