Topiary is a special form of gardening where plants are manipulated into certain shapes. Origins of this distinct craft are as deep as gardening itself. The first evidences of this craft were dated as far back as 7,000 BC with the discovery of Buxus pollen grains. In 4,000 BC, the Egyptians started pruning box hedges. There is evidence of topiaries in succeeding centuries in different parts of Europe and the United States. Kings and dignitaries including King Midas, Emperor Augustus, Henry VII, Henry VIII, James I and Charles II among others. Large gardens filled with topiaries were an indication of the owner’s wealth. During more recent times, the availability of materials and technology has made the craft more attainable and affordable to regular homeowners.
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With the craft having a long and varied history, a number of topiary designs that have lasted through time have become famous. One of the most enduring is the gardens at the Villa Lante di Bagnaia. Built during the mid to late 16th century, the garden features elements from the chiaroscuro style. The 17th century is known as the Golden Age for topiary. It was during this time that the Levens Hall and Topiary Gardens were developed. The Levens gardens features detailed and unusual shapes. Canons Ashby garden is one of the few topiaries that have survived dating from the early 18th century. Compared to other topiaries developed before and after, the Canons Ashby is simplistic. The topiaries are reflective of garden designs during the Victorian era, featuring a few distinct forms with ample spacing in between. Several centuries later, the Ladew Topiary Gardens was developed. Located in Maryland, this 22-acre garden features 26 different garden designs, all designed by Harvey Ladew himself. Some of the more recent additions include the Deaf School Park in Ohio, developed in 1989 and Durbuy Belgium’s Topiary Park, developed in 1997. Gardeners that create these masterpieces often go unrecognized. Only a few gain credit for their craft. One of the more current popular artists include Pearl Fryar.
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- Levens Hall
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- Canons Ashby Garden
- Ladew Topiary Gardens
- Miss Hogg’s Topiary Garden
- Topiary Garden/Deaf School Park
- Parc des Topiares
- Topiary artist Pearl Fryar
Earlier traditional forms of topiary utilized dense plants that could be pruned and sheared to different shapes. Some of the more popular plants used included evergreens, yews, boxwoods and rosemary. Wooden canes and similar materials were used to help train the stems to stay and grow in particular positions. The climate of the area was an important factor as the plants dried quickly. Constant care and attention to watering and fertilization was needed to make them grow well. In the past, only the wealthy could afford having topiaries in large gardens. During the mid 20th century, the introduction of wire frames more possible to create topiaries even with smaller gardens. The frame is filled with sphagnum moss or a similar shrub. As the shrub grows and fills the frame, the sculpture emerges. Synthetic topiaries have also been developed. These artificial plants create the illusion of topiaries living inside the home. Arborsculpture involves grafting stems and branches to create plants with different shapes and designs. Although different from topiaries, it is now common to find this technique merged with topiaries.
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Topiaries are no longer limited to large garden grounds or outdoors. Homeowners now have the option of choosing the size and type of topiary to put in their home. Some plants worth considering for keeping topiaries indoors include Baby’s Tears, Creeping Figs, Grape Ivies and Ivies, Jasmine, Lavender, Rosemary Vine and Scented Geranium. Create a frame using thin wire and pliers or wire cutters. There are also ready-made frames available for purchase. Pick a desired shape for the frame. Some of the more popular designs include simple shapes and animal designs. Choose a suitable-sized pot and place the frame at the middle of the soil filled pot. Transfer the plant to the pot and carefully weave the stems along the frame. Use pieces of florists’ tape to secure the plant to the frame. For three-dimensional designs, use sphagnum moss to completely fill the frame before adding any other plants to the mix. Water plants as needed.
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Topiaries have made a comeback over the last century. With the varieties of plants and materials available, anybody can create their own topiary within the comforts of home. The look and feel of sculpted plants bridges the gap between nature and man-made objects. Regardless of the size, it makes a lasting statement, giving the home a more unique touch.
