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Topiary

Fastigiata Boxwood: The Ultimate Guide to Planting, Care, and Uses

by Gregory September 14, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Fastigiata Boxwood: A Versatile Evergreen for Your Landscape

Introduction

Buxus sempervirens Fastigiata, commonly known as Fastigiata boxwood, is a popular ornamental shrub prized for its narrow, conical shape and versatility in the landscape. Whether you’re looking to create a formal hedge, a solitary specimen plant, or a topiary masterpiece, Fastigiata boxwood is an excellent choice.

Growth Characteristics

Fastigiata boxwood is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that can live up to 40 years or more with proper care. It is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 8 and adapts well to container living. Unlike other boxwood varieties, Fastigiata has an upright growth pattern that resembles a tree, with multi-stemmed branches that retain dense foliage from the ground up. Untrimmed, these shrubs develop a pyramid shape with a mature size of 10 to 12 feet tall and 3 to 5 feet wide.

Foliage

Fastigiata boxwood boasts attractive, glossy, oval leaves that emerge bright green and mature to a characteristic dark blue-green hue. In northern climates, the foliage may turn bronze due to harsh weather conditions. New foliage is particularly susceptible to cold damage.

Planting and Care

Fastigiata boxwood prefers sunny to partly sunny locations, but it can tolerate some shade. It adapts well to slightly acidic or slightly alkaline soils but requires well-drained conditions. Avoid planting in low-lying areas or areas with poor drainage, as this can lead to root rot.

Water your Fastigiata boxwood regularly, especially during periods of drought. Supplemental watering may be necessary to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Pruning

Fastigiata boxwood responds well to pruning, making it suitable for various landscaping applications. You can prune it to maintain a formal hedge, shape it into topiary forms, or simply remove dead or damaged branches. Pruning also helps to promote bushier growth.

Benefits

Fastigiata boxwood offers several benefits for gardeners:

Versatile: Can be used for hedges, specimens, topiary, and bonsai.
Evergreen: Provides year-round interest in the landscape.
Slow-growing: Requires minimal maintenance.
Hardy: Tolerates a wide range of climates and conditions.
Heat tolerant: Can withstand hot, dry summers.
Drought tolerant: Can survive periods of low rainfall.
Deer and rabbit resistant: Unpalatable to these common pests.
Pollution tolerant: Thrives in urban environments.

Uses in Landscape Design

Fastigiata boxwood is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of landscape designs:

Hedges: Formal hedges can define property lines, create privacy screening, or add structure to a garden.
Specimen plants: Solitary Fastigiata boxwood shrubs can serve as focal points in the landscape or accentuate entryways.
Topiary: The dense foliage and upright growth habit of Fastigiata boxwood make it ideal for topiary, allowing you to create unique and eye-catching shapes.
Bonsai: With proper care and training, Fastigiata boxwood can be grown as a beautiful and miniature bonsai specimen.

Conclusion

Fastigiata boxwood is a versatile and low-maintenance evergreen shrub that adds beauty and functionality to any landscape. Its narrow, conical shape, attractive foliage, and adaptability make it a popular choice for gardeners of all levels.

Gardening Techniques

Olive Tree Topiaries: A Beginner’s Guide to Creating and Caring for Shaped Olive Trees

by Gregory September 1, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Olive Tree Topiaries: A Guide for Beginners

What is an Olive Tree Topiary?

An olive tree topiary is a shaped tree created by pruning. You can prune and shape the tree into any shape you like, but the most common shapes are balls, pyramids, and spirals. Olive tree topiaries are popular because they are relatively easy to care for and can add a touch of elegance to any home or garden.

How to Make an Olive Tree Topiary

The best time to prune an olive tree topiary is in late winter or early spring, when the trees are growing more slowly.

Materials:

Olive tree
Pruning shears
Wire or string (optional)

Instructions:

Choose a young tree. Olive trees that are two years old or younger are ideal for topiary. Older trees can be pruned into topiaries, but they may not tolerate severe pruning as well.
Select a shape. Decide what shape you want your topiary to be. Common shapes include balls, pyramids, and spirals.
Remove suckers. Suckers are small branches that grow from the base of the tree or from the trunk. Remove them by pruning them off at the base.
Shape the canopy. Trim the olive tree canopy into the shape you have selected. You can use wire or string to help you achieve the desired shape.
Maintain your topiary. Olive topiaries require regular maintenance to keep their shape. Prune any new growth that appears outside of the desired shape.

Tips for Making an Olive Topiary Look More Natural

Use a variety of pruning techniques. Don’t just shear the tree into a shape. Use a variety of pruning techniques, such as thinning, heading, and shaping, to create a more natural look.
Prune gradually. Don’t try to prune your topiary into its final shape all at once. Prune it gradually over time, allowing the tree to adjust to its new shape.
Be patient. It takes time to create a beautiful olive tree topiary. Be patient and don’t get discouraged if your topiary doesn’t look perfect right away. With time and care, your topiary will develop into a beautiful work of art.

Olive Tree Topiary Care

Water: Olive trees need regular watering, especially during hot weather. Water your topiary deeply, but allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Fertilizer: Fertilize your topiary every few months with a balanced fertilizer.
Pruning: Olive topiaries require regular pruning to maintain their shape. Prune your topiary in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
Repotting: Olive topiaries should be repotted every few years as they grow. Repot your topiary into a larger pot with fresh potting mix.

Conclusion

Olive tree topiaries are a beautiful and unique way to add a touch of elegance to your home or garden. With a little care and attention, you can create a beautiful olive topiary that will bring you years of enjoyment.

Gardening and Landscaping

Topiary: A Comprehensive Guide to Growing, Pruning, and Shaping

by Gregory July 7, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Topiary: A Comprehensive Guide

What is Topiary?

Topiary is the art of trimming and training plants into various shapes and sizes. These shapes can be simple, like balls or cones, or complex, like animals or figures. Topiary has been around for centuries, and it’s a popular way to add interest and beauty to gardens.

Best Plants for Topiary

The best plants for topiary are small-leaved evergreens that respond well to trimming and look good all year round. Some popular choices include:

Box
Japanese holly
Privet
Yew
Bay
Cupressus ‘Castlewellan’
Small-leaved ivy

Where to Place Topiary Plants

Topiary plants are versatile and can be placed in a variety of locations in the garden, including:

Pots and containers
Front gardens
Raised beds
Borders
Hedges

Growing Topiary in Pots

Topiary plants can be successfully grown in pots. Use a soil-based potting compost and ensure the pot has good drainage. Water regularly and feed in spring with a controlled-release fertilizer.

Pruning Topiary

Regular pruning is essential to maintain the shape of topiary plants. Prune several times during the growing season, making the first trim in late May or early June. Always check for nesting birds before cutting.

Tools for Pruning Topiary

Choose pruning tools according to the size of the plant. Hand shears are fine for small plants, while powered trimmers are easier for large ones. Keep the blades sharp to avoid bruising the cut stems.

Using Topiary Frames

Topiary frames can be used to achieve perfect symmetry on larger pieces. Place the frame over the plant and train the stems to grow within the frame.

Topiary Problems

Box blight and box moth are common problems for box topiary plants. In areas with high rainfall, it’s best to choose an alternative plant, such as Japanese holly. Other problems that can affect topiary plants include:

Clipping with blunt pruning tools
Pruning in hot, sunny weather

Advice on Buying Topiary Plants

When buying topiary plants, consider the following:

The type, shape, and size of plant that suits your space
The health of the plant, checking for any brown or yellowing leaves

Where to Buy Topiary Online

There are many online retailers that sell topiary plants. Do some research to find a reputable seller that offers a variety of plants and sizes.

Conclusion

Topiary is a beautiful and versatile addition to any garden. With a little care and attention, you can grow and maintain healthy topiary plants that will add interest and beauty to your outdoor space for years to come.

Gardening Techniques

Growing Boxwood: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners and Experts Alike

by Donna July 6, 2024

written by Donna 4 minutes read

Growing Boxwood: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Boxwood, also known as Buxus sempervirens, is a versatile evergreen shrub that has been prized for centuries for its use in hedging, topiary, and formal gardens. Despite recent challenges from pests and diseases, boxwood remains a popular choice for gardeners due to its adaptability and ease of care. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to successfully grow and maintain healthy boxwood plants.

Varieties of Boxwood

There are several varieties of boxwood available, each with its own unique characteristics:

Common Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens): The most common type of boxwood, known for its small, dense leaves and compact growth habit.
Golden Triumph (Buxus microphylla ‘Golden Triumph’): A hardy cultivar with smaller, yellow-green leaves that add a touch of color to the landscape.
Suffruticosa (Buxus sempervirens ‘Suffruticosa’): A dwarf variety with a slow growth rate, making it ideal for low hedging and topiary.
Blauer Heinz (Buxus sempervirens ‘Blauer Heinz’): A slow-growing variety with bluish-green foliage, perfect for hedging and topiary balls.
Rocket (Buxus sempervirens ‘Rocket’): A fast-growing variety with a narrow, upright habit, suitable for taller hedging.
Elegans (Buxus sempervirens ‘Elegans’): A variegated variety with creamy-silvery bordered leaves, adding a touch of elegance to your garden.

How to Plant Boxwood

When to Plant: Boxwood can be planted anytime of the year except when the ground is frozen. Spring and fall are the ideal seasons for planting.
Where to Plant: Boxwood prefers moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade.
How to Plant: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and just as deep. Amend the soil with compost or manure to improve drainage and fertility. Place the boxwood in the hole and backfill with the amended soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting.

Caring for Boxwood

Watering: Water boxwood regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilizing: Fertilize boxwood once a year in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Pruning: Prune boxwood in mid to late summer to maintain its shape and size. Prune lightly to avoid stimulating new growth that may be susceptible to frost damage.
Mulching: Spread a layer of mulch around boxwood plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Pests and Diseases

Box Blight: A fungal disease that causes leaf loss and weakens boxwood plants. Cut out infected areas and destroy them. Avoid pruning in wet conditions and disinfect tools between cuts to prevent the spread of the disease.
Box Tree Caterpillar: A pest that feeds on boxwood leaves, defoliating the plant. Handpick caterpillars or use pheromone traps, biological controls, or insecticides to manage the infestation.
Volutella Blight: A less damaging type of blight that causes similar symptoms to box blight. Cut out affected areas and disinfect tools.

Troubleshooting

Yellowing Leaves: Yellowing leaves can be caused by frost damage, lack of water, or waterlogged soil. Wait until after the last frost to trim away yellow leaves and allow new growth to emerge.
Orange Leaves: Orange leaves can indicate sunburn, lack of nutrients, or waterlogged soil. Water and fertilize the plant, and if growing in a pot, check for rootbound conditions.
Hard Pruning: Boxwood generally responds well to hard pruning. Cut back neglected trees to within 15-30cm of the ground in May, or prune in stages over several years.

Conclusion

Growing boxwood is a rewarding experience that can add beauty and structure to your garden. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your boxwood plants thrive for years to come. Remember to choose the right variety for your needs, plant and care for them properly, and be vigilant for pests and diseases. With a little effort, you can enjoy the timeless elegance of boxwood in your own outdoor space.

Shrubs

Japanese Spindle: The Ultimate Guide to a Versatile Evergreen Shrub

by Donna June 8, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Japanese Spindle: A Versatile Evergreen Shrub for Many Landscaping Needs

Introduction

The Japanese spindle, also known as Euonymus japonicus ‘Chollipo,’ is a popular evergreen shrub prized for its glossy, variegated leaves, fast growth, and adaptability to various growing conditions. This versatile plant is an excellent choice for hedges, screening, topiary, and container gardening.

Characteristics

Evergreen: Retains its leaves throughout the year, providing year-round interest.
Variegated leaves: Features glossy leaves with a combination of green and cream variegation, adding a touch of color to the landscape.
Fast growth: Grows quickly, making it an ideal choice for quickly establishing a hedge or screen.
Upright habit: Grows in an upright, columnar shape, making it suitable for use as a specimen plant or in formal gardens.

Uses

Hedge: The dense growth habit and upright form make it an excellent choice for creating formal or informal hedges.
Screening: Can be used to create privacy screens or block unsightly views.
Foil plant: The variegated leaves provide a striking contrast when planted alongside more colorful plants, highlighting their beauty.
Topiary: Can be shaped into various topiary forms, such as spheres, cones, or spirals.
Container gardening: Can be grown in containers on patios or balconies, adding a touch of greenery to urban spaces.

Growing Conditions

Sun exposure: Prefers full sun to partial shade.
Soil: Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions, including poor, acidic, boggy, chalky, alkaline, clay, heavy, moist, well-drained, light, and sandy soils.
Water: Requires regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. However, once established, it can tolerate drought conditions.
Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones 5-9.

Special Features

Salt spray tolerance: Can tolerate salt spray, making it an excellent choice for coastal gardens.
Drought tolerance: Once established, it can withstand periods of drought, making it suitable for dry areas.
Heat tolerance: Can tolerate high temperatures, making it a good choice for hot climates.
No wildlife value: The glossy leaves are not attractive to insects or other wildlife, making it less suitable for attracting birds or other species.

Care and Maintenance

Pruning: Trim annually to maintain a desired shape and size.
Fertilizing: Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Watering: Water regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.

Toxicity

Euonymus japonicus ‘Chollipo’ is not known to be toxic to humans or animals.

Conclusion

Japanese spindle is a versatile and adaptable evergreen shrub that is well-suited for a wide range of landscaping needs. Its glossy, variegated leaves, fast growth, and tolerance to various growing conditions make it a popular choice for hedges, screening, topiary, and container gardening. With proper care and maintenance, this plant can provide years of beauty and functionality in your landscape.

Gardening

Boxwood Shrubs: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing, Planting, and Avoiding Bad Smells

by Gregory April 17, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Boxwood Shrubs: A Comprehensive Guide

Boxwood shrubs (Buxus spp.) are popular ornamental plants known for their deep green leaves and compact, round form. They are versatile and can be used for hedges, borders, topiary, and container gardening. However, some gardeners have reported an unpleasant odor emanating from certain boxwood varieties, particularly the English boxwood (Buxus sempervirens). This article delves into the causes of boxwood odor, provides tips on how to avoid it, and suggests alternative plants that can be used in place of boxwood shrubs.

What Causes Boxwood Shrubs to Smell?

The unpleasant odor associated with some boxwood shrubs is caused by the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the plant’s flowers. These VOCs can have a strong, cat urine-like smell. The English boxwood is particularly prone to producing these VOCs, especially during the late spring when the plant is in bloom.

How to Avoid Smelly Boxwood Shrubs

If you are concerned about the potential for smelly boxwood shrubs, there are several steps you can take to avoid the problem:

Choose non-odorous varieties: Not all boxwood varieties produce a strong odor. Some less odorous options include Japanese boxwood (Buxus microphylla), Asian boxwood (Buxus sinica), and Little Leaf boxwood (Buxus sinica var insularis).
Avoid planting near frequently used areas: If you do decide to plant boxwood shrubs, avoid placing them near your front door or other areas where you spend a lot of time. This will help to minimize your exposure to any potential odors.
Consider alternative plants: If you are looking for an alternative to boxwood shrubs, there are several other dense, evergreen plants that can be used for hedging and other purposes. Some good options include myrtles (Myrtis spp.) and hollies (Ilex spp.).

What to Do if Your Boxwood Shrubs Smell

If you already have boxwood shrubs that are producing an unpleasant odor, there are a few things you can do to try to reduce the smell:

Prune the flowers: Pruning the flowers off of the boxwood shrubs can help to reduce the production of VOCs and thus the intensity of the odor.
Water the shrubs regularly: Keeping the boxwood shrubs well-watered can help to flush out the VOCs and reduce the odor.
Use a deodorizing spray: There are a number of commercial deodorizing sprays available that can be used to help mask the smell of boxwood shrubs.

Conclusion

Boxwood shrubs are a popular choice for gardeners due to their versatility and attractive appearance. However, some varieties of boxwood can produce an unpleasant odor. By choosing non-odorous varieties, planting the shrubs away from frequently used areas, and taking steps to reduce the production of VOCs, you can avoid the problem of smelly boxwood shrubs and enjoy the beauty of these plants in your garden.

Gardening

Best Plants for Your Front Door: Enhance Curb Appeal and Create a Welcoming Entrance

by Gregory April 16, 2024

written by Gregory 2 minutes read

Best Plants for Your Front Door

Creating Curb Appeal

The entrance to your home is the first impression for visitors. Why not enhance it with plants to make it more welcoming and attractive? There are many options to choose from, whether you have a sunny or shady front door, or limited space.

Plants for Different Styles

Match your plant choices to the style of your home and garden. For a cozy cottage look, mix flowers in various colors and heights. For a more formal look, opt for architectural plants, topiary, and a limited color palette.

Containers for Versatility

Containers are a great option for seasonal displays. You can change them up throughout the year for a quick burst of color. Plus, they’re perfect for small spaces or shady areas.

Plants for Sun and Shade

Sunny front door: Consider wisteria, geraniums, yew, cosmos, phormium, lollipop bay, roses, tulips, lavender
Shady front door: Ferns, heucheras, hostas

Year-Round Interest

Choose plants with evergreen foliage or that bloom in different seasons to provide year-round beauty. Ferns, yew, and lavender are all good choices for winter interest.

Tips for Choosing and Planting

Consider the sunlight and soil conditions outside your front door.
Choose plants that match your style and space.
Replant containers with fresh flowers as needed.
Plant bulbs in the fall for a spring display.

Herbs

How to Grow a Bay Tree (Laurus Nobilis): A Comprehensive Guide

by Gregory March 20, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

How to Grow a Bay Tree (Laurus Nobilis)

Introduction

Bay trees are beautiful evergreen shrubs with aromatic leaves that are commonly used in cooking. They are native to the Mediterranean region and can be grown in a variety of climates. With proper care, bay trees can thrive for many years and add beauty and flavor to your garden.

Choosing a Location

Bay trees prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. They are not completely hardy in cold climates, so it is important to choose a sheltered location if you live in an area with harsh winters.

Planting

Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and just as deep.
Place the bay tree in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets.
Water the tree deeply and mulch around the base to retain moisture.

Care

Water your bay tree regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
Fertilize your bay tree every few weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Prune your bay tree in the summer to remove any dead or damaged branches and to shape the tree as desired.

Harvesting

Bay leaves can be harvested at any time of year. Simply pick the leaves from the tree and use them fresh or dry them for later use.

Troubleshooting

Yellow leaves: This can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, or nutrient deficiency.
Brown or black leaves: This can be caused by frost damage or sunburn.
Bay tree suckers: These are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause distorted leaves and honeydew production.

Tips

Bay trees are slow-growing, so be patient when growing them.
If you live in a cold climate, you can grow bay trees in containers and bring them indoors during the winter.
Bay trees can be trained into a variety of shapes, including topiaries and standard lollipop trees.
Bay leaves are a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, and desserts.

Conclusion

Bay trees are beautiful and easy-to-grow plants that can add beauty and flavor to your garden. With proper care, they can thrive for many years and provide you with a bountiful harvest of aromatic leaves.

Gardening

Transform Your Garden on a Budget: DIY Projects, Vertical Planting, and More

by Donna March 4, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Transform Your Garden on a Budget: Creative Ideas and DIY Projects

Vertical Planting with Gutters and Bottles

Transform dull walls and fences into vibrant vertical gardens using gutters and recycled bottles. Simply paint gutters and cut the bottom of bottles to create planters. Fill them with shallow-rooted plants like herbs or sedums for a unique and eco-friendly display.

Repurposing Pallets and Seed Propagation

Old pallets can be repurposed as planters, raised beds, or even insect shelters. Plant bedding plants, salads, or trailing plants to add height and soften the look. To save money on plants, propagate your own from seeds. Speedy annuals like cosmos, zinnias, and marigolds are easy to grow and will fill gaps in your borders with vibrant blooms.

Budget-Friendly Landscaping Alternatives

Instead of expensive paving, consider using gravel or installing reclaimed bricks in a herringbone pattern. You can also save money by laying your own stepping stone path with reclaimed paving stones or purchasing inexpensive options online.

Outdoor Furniture and Decor on a Budget

Restore old wooden furniture with furniture restorer and paint to give it a new lease on life. Add colorful outdoor rugs to your patio for a touch of flair without breaking the bank. Use bold-colored furniture or architectural plants as statement pieces to enhance the style of your garden.

Water Features and Topiary

Even a small pond can add tranquility and attract wildlife to your garden. Create a container pond using a watertight container, bricks, and pond plants. Topiary adds structure and shape to your garden, and evergreen plants ensure year-round interest. Keep standard trees in a lollipop shape or clip box into balls for a touch of elegance.

Planting for All Seasons

Spring bulbs are an affordable way to brighten your garden in the spring. Plant layers of bulbs in containers or naturalize them in your lawn. Architectural plants like phormiums and yuccas add drama with their bold foliage and height. For exotic flair, try cannas and ginger lilies.

Reshaping Borders and DIY Projects

Create new borders or reshape existing ones to freshen up the look of your garden. Even edging your lawn can make a big difference. Make a wigwam for climbing plants using bamboo canes or coppiced hazel to add height to your borders.

Additional Tips for a Budget-Friendly Garden Makeover

Collect seeds from perennials in the fall to save money on plants.
Use decorative mulch like pebbles or shells to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Make a simple bird bath by turning an upside-down terracotta pot and gluing a saucer on top.
Plant hardy succulents in small gaps between paving or in dry soil for a touch of greenery.
Add lighting to your garden using candles, fairy lights, or solar lighting options to create a cozy ambiance at night.
Take cuttings from your favorite plants in the spring to propagate new ones for free.