Thuja or tree of life is not only a very popular plant for the hedge. The tree also cuts a fine figure as a topiary. The spherical shape is usually chosen. How do you cut a thuja as a ball?

The thuja is often cut into a ball

Cut the thuja into a ball

In addition to the cone shape, the most popular shape for cutting the thuja is the spherical shape. For this you should choose a not so fast growing Thuja variety.

In the first two years you let the tree of life grow without cutting it into shape. Then the roots develop better and the tree becomes generally stronger.

Cut the tree of life into shape three times a year

While you initially have to cut a hedge twice a year, later only once a year, up to three prunings are required for topiary:

  • 1st cut mid-April
  • 2nd cut end of June
  • 3rd cut at the end of August

In April, perform the main pruning. The thuja is severely shortened so that it forms a ball. Remove laterally growing shoots as they impede air circulation. This prevents early balding and prevents fungal infestation.

Never cut a arborvitae behind the greenery unless there are branches infested with fungi or pests. It takes a very long time for such spots to turn green again.

Two shape cuts in summer

After each new shoot, branches appear that protrude from the ball. Simply cut it to the desired length.

How to cut a sphere

To get a really round ball, make a template out of wire or cardboard. You simply put a wire mesh over the crown of the thuja. Then you can cut off all overhanging branches.

If using a template, run it around the crown and cut along it.

Do not cut on sunny days or when it rains

Never prune the tree of life - whether as a hedge or as a ball - in strong sunshine or when the tree is very wet.

The interfaces then discolour unattractively brown.

tips

Thuja can also be cut well as a spiral. You can get templates for this in stores. A ball is often cut as the tip.

Category:

Trees