Topiaries Carve a Place Indoors and Out

Topiary gardens take years to grow and perfect (not for faint of heart). For those committed to maintaining a formal topiary garden, results can be magnificent.

Join me for a look at inspirational topiary designs, from smallest sinkside rosemary to a grand showcase garden in Pennsylvania.

Topiary is the art of shaping plants into recognizable forms by pruning. In outdoor gardens, spherical shapes create fanciful look. A collection of shaped evergreens gives a Dr. Seuss–like appeal.

Classic miniature standards look like small trees, each with singular trunk and round pom-pom top. Woody herbs like lavender and rosemary make ideal sinkside or countertop miniature standards.

Extend standard topiary to three balls of foliage for another traditional form. This topiary brings green to a music room.

Topiaries aren't just for traditional spaces. Try two matching trees shaped as standards in a modern space. Use on lemon or lime tree for beautiful, edible topiary.

Another classic form: the spiral. Choose pre-shaped plant or select your own upright evergreen. Arborvitae good for this creation.

Short on space? Try spiral in miniature. Kept in small pot, topiary stays diminutive.

For more inspiration, I traveled to Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. Magnificent display of old, wizened topiary forms mixed with whimsical additions in charming shapes.

This terraced, spherical pyramid shape repeated often throughout the space.

Shapes like these must be trimmed several times a year. Gaps between layers quickly disappear without regular tending.

Some topiary towers topped by birds that look ready to lift off.

Peek inside various topiary structures: they often get support in old age. Unnatural forms put weight on evergreen branches, so staking necessary.

Not all seriousness: this charming duck sits front and center.

Inspired to try a topiary form? Start with simple modern hedge and a few pom-poms.

Or go with looser arrangement to spice up the dining room.

Whichever style, remember topiary is an art form taking dedication and time. You'll shape your plant for years; upkeep continual. If you have time and inclination, a topiary garden can be beautiful to behold.

Tell us: Do you have examples of simple or extravagant topiaries? Share photos and links in Comments!

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Indoor Gardener: Topiaries Help Rooms Shape Up