- 1). Pick a bush that has naturally small leaves; this prevents larger leaves from being cut in half during the regular trimmings. Evergreen shrubs work well for this type of yard art. The common boxwood, holly and cotoneaster are wise choices for topiary. Sweet bay, yew and Lonicera "Baggenses Gold" are also small-leaved bushes suitable for topiary, according to the BBC.
- 2). Purchase bushes with healthy-looking leaves and roots that are not pot bound. Evenly spaced limbs and compost that is free of a lot of moss or weeds are other important factors.
- 3). Plan the site for the bush sculpture. Talk to the salesperson at the gardening center to learn about the needs of the type of bush that you select. Plant it in a site that has the proper amount of sunlight and the right type of soil necessary for optimal growth.
- 4). Pick a shape that is relatively simple if this is your first topiary attempt. Sculptures with lots of details require more time and expertise to keep looking tidy and to maintain the shape.
- 5). Cut the framework of the bush sculpture during the first pruning by using sharp pruning shears. Another option is topiary shears. They have a spring action that makes it less tiresome to cut detailed or large sculptures. It is wise to prune too little than too much on the bush. Cutting too much may result in a sparse or uneven shape. If this occurs, the sculpture may not look right for one or two growing seasons.
- 6). Step back from the bush after making a few cuts and inspect it. This gives you a better perspective on the pruning than if you are near the bush. Work your way around the bush making small snips each time.
- 7). Stand several feet away from the bush or even across the street once you are finished shaping it. This enables you to see how it looks to pedestrians as they pass the area. Go back and trim the shape more if it seems uneven in areas.
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