Making a Topiary

Creating a topiary is a fun and easy project you can complete indoors during cooler fall days. Most anything that climbs can be used for a topiary. Though, anything that goes into a container should not have a vigorous root system. Following this simple guideline allows you to avoid planting it in the ground at a later date. For this project we have selected ivy. This great plant works well as a houseplant and can be planted in the ground (if you wish) for use as a ground cover. Though, you should be warned that it can become invasive once planted in the ground, so plant wisely! Let’s get started!

 

Materials Needed

- 1, 8” Flower Pot
- 1 Metal Topiary Form
- Gravel
- Potting Soil
- Fertilizer
- Peat Moss
- 2 Small Ivy Plants
- Twist Ties


Putting it All Together

We have various ivy choices at Fairview so stop by to select one that suites your personal style! Topiary forms can be found at your local craft store. Or, you can create your own out of some heavy gauge craft wire or an old coat hanger (pliers will be needed). Adults will need to do this part of the project if you choose not to purchase one.

First, start out by placing the topiary form in your flower pot. The legs of the form should exert pressure on the sides of your container. If they don’t, stretch the legs until pressure is exerted. Place two inches of gravel in the bottom of your container (gravel helps with drainage).

Next, put enough potting soil in your container to fill the container about two-thirds full. Add a slow release fertilizer, such as Osmocote. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for the proper amount to use and fertilizing schedule. Tease the roots of your ivy plants and place in the soil, pressing the soil around the roots and continue by adding enough soil to make the soil level flush with the top of the ivy plant’s root ball. Make sure you leave one to two inches of head space at the top of your container to prevent soil overflow when watering. Water thoroughly.

Train your ivy on the form, securing with twist ties if necessary. Your ivy should grow to the form on its own. You may, periodically, need to trim any stray pieces. Place peat moss on top of soil and voila! Sit back and watch your topiary flourish!

Have Fun!
Heather W.
Fairview Greenhouses & Garden Center