How to Trim a Bush in Fun Shapes

To trim bushes in fun shapes, use the art of topiary. These elaborate landscape works of art can be foun in stylish and well-maintained gardens. They don't have to be associated with wealthy households and private gardeners. Trimming a bush into an interesting shape is not as complicated as it may seem; even the novice can create a magical piece to delight the beholder.

Best Shrubs for Topiary

Boxwood, ivy, privet and yew are the most popular shrubs to shape into topiary forms. These evergreens have small leaves, grow slowly and densely which makes them appropriate for creating elaborate shapes.

Step 1 - Forming a Shrub into a Shape

Early summer is the best time to start your topiary project. Think about the figure you want and assess the existing shape of the shrub. Sometimes, your plant will already resemble a certain pattern and this can give you an idea of how to develop it. Focus on the fundamental geometrical shapes needed for a spiral, a cube, a bird or animal. A basic topiary such as a cube, cone or a pyramid is appropriate for the novice gardener and gives a quick sense of accomplishment.

An elaborate figure such as a peacock, swan, bear, guitar or woman is not necessarily complex to create, but it does take more time and patience. Therefore, carefully consider what you may expect from the topiary and how much time you intend to invest in shaping it.

Step 2 - Wire Frame

If you are a beginner, wire frames in different shapes are a practical tool to get you started. Alternatively, you can make your own template from a wire frame. Place the frame on the bush. Prune the shrub branches where they are sticking out. The shears have to be clean and sharp. Pruning with blunt tools harms the stems. With regular trimming, the shrubs “train” to grow around the frame, but you need to be patient as the process takes time.

Step 3 - Without Wire Frame

When trimming without a wire frame the process is somewhat different.

• Slowly and carefully form the shrub into a basic geometrical shape.
• For example, for a cat, trim the bush into an oval shape.
• Place some sticks to act as a reference point where you want the head or the tail.
• Examine the stems that will form the individual parts.
• Tie the sticks with a string to the shrub if necessary.
• As the shrub grows, trim the selected stems into details such as head, tail, paws, etc.

This process can take several years but with persistency, your topiary will become a focal point in the yard.

Step 4 - Caring for Your Fun-Shaped Bush

• The shrubs need regular watering, especially in hot months, so that they retain their form and look healthy and green.
• Keep them free of insects and pests.
• Depending on the type of shrub you have used, the frequency of repeated trimming varies. Some types of plants grow fast while others take several years to form into a shape.

Topiaries are an exquisite and sophisticated addition to your garden and can set a magical atmosphere. They are not so complex to make, but require a significant amount of patience.