Topiaries

1. Topiary arts are making a strong comeback in landscape architecture at residences and in commercial buildings. Having first been introduced in the 1st century AD, then experiencing revivals in the middle ages and during the Italian Renaissance, it appears it's coming back for another go round.

2. The classic, slow-growing shrubs are probably the topiary you're most familiar with, but there are faster growing options if you don't have several years for them to mature. These quick growth sphagnums grow inside an open frame of mesh or chicken wire. This method provides an easy way to experiment with shapes without having to invest years for slower growing shrubs.

3. Many gardeners use a base of ivy, scotch moss, rosemary, solerolia, or creeping fig, but you shouldn't be reluctant to stray from the path and go for some blooming vines or vibrant annuals.

4. Constructing a frame is pretty easy, in the sense that you're just bending wire and attaching it. Getting the right shape will take time and practice, though. Once you do get it, be sure to use drought tolerant plants on tips and thin parts of your frame, as these will dry out first.

5. A live topiary does reflect a certain character in the person willing to cultivate it. The topiary gardener displays Zen-like calmness and appreciation for nature in the regular maintenance of her growing spheres, cones, pyramids, or whatever shape the plant is given.

6. But creating and maintaining a topiary plant, even more so a garden, is a full-time and expensive commitment. Thankfully, during this topiary revival, we have artificial topiary options. They never dry out, don't require a babysitter during vacation, and won't fade in the sun.

7. An artificial topiary can be placed anywhere without concern for light exposure or nearness to electrical outlets (unless it's equipped with lights). This makes it a perfect candidate for hiding unsightly wires or covering other aesthetic imperfections in your home.

8. After you decide on the placement of your artificial topiary, indoors or outdoors, try to get a feel for the color and shape themes that define the area. If there truly is nothing definitive there, you're in luck because you can do about anything. Otherwise, it's best to mimic the shapes and colors or somehow play off the plant's setting.

9. Next you'll want to investigate what you're options are for the kind of topiary you need. Shop online, look in your town, and get as many quotes as you can. Not everyone will have what you're looking for, and you may have to compromise on some features, but these versatile artificial plants come in many varieties. You should be able to find something close.