- These boxwood varieties are suitable for a pyramid cut
- Cutting a pyramid - Here's how
- Topiary means a lot of work for the gardener
Boxwood is ideal for a topiary, which the ancient Romans understood as the artful training and pruning of trees and shrubs. Many traditional gardens in France, Italy and other Mediterranean countries are still laid out around pruned evergreen trees and shrubs. A classic form is the pyramid.
Boxwood pyramids are not that difficult to cut
These boxwood varieties are suitable for a pyramid cut
Topiary is the art of turning living plants into sculptures. Simple geometric figures like the pyramid are the easiest to create. Choose fast-growing varieties that naturally tend to grow taller, such as 'Rotundifolia'. Varieties such as 'Herrenhausen' or 'Blauer Heinz', which are so popular for borders or spherical cuts, are not suitable.
Cutting a pyramid - Here's how
In order to get the boxwood into the desired shape, you can purchase a suitable wire template in stores. You simply put this over the plant - pay attention to the matching sizes! - and cut off everything that is sticking out of the wire frame. In the first few years, the rack may still be visible or holes may remain in the bush. However, both grow over time, although you can also remove the wire frame after the cut. Instead, you can also tie canes together like a tent and pull this over the box before cutting. Even so, you have a framework to hold onto as you cut.
Topiary means a lot of work for the gardener
Don't start a topiary in your garden unless you have the time and patience (or a gardener!) to take care of it consistently. With each pruning you remove any young, strong new shoots and weaken the plant. Fertilizing, watering and weeding are therefore essential. Use a slow-acting organic fertilizer (such as compost) that improves soil structure and provides nutrients. In addition, a topiary requires more frequent use of the pruning shears: You should trim the pyramid at least twice a year, otherwise it will lose its attractiveness. The first cut takes place between the end of April and mid-May, the second in July at the latest.
tips
With boxwood cut into pyramids, you create simple but effective classic passages. You can also line a door, a path or an avenue with this and other shapes.