There are many different styles and shapes of topiary, and this article will focus on the three different types of topiary plant you will select from for the style you choose for your design plan. Live topiary consists of living plants whereas artificial and preserved topiary plants do not grow. Each type of topiary has its advantages - which one is best for you?
Artificial Topiary
A variety of material options are available in artificial topiary plants, and the plastics and fabrics used today are more realistic than ever. A silk topiary plant, for example, will rustle with the breeze and seem to tremble with life without ever needing water, soil, or care beyond occasional cleaning. Perfect for busy professionals who nonetheless want sophisticated style in and around their homes, the faux topiary plant is as economic as it is elegant.
Preserved Topiary
Now here's a clever option: a preserved topiary plant. Through a delicate conditioning process, a real, previously-living plant is preserved so that it will stay green and vibrant despite the fact that it is no longer growing. This means no watering or fertilizing, and no need to continually maintain the topiary shape with trimming and clipping. Sunlight and interior temperature are also non-issues, as you enjoy the distinctive charm of a life-like topiary plant.
Live Topiary
If you have the time and energy for it, a live topiary plant is such a joy! It is more than decoration; it is a partnership between plant and human offering mutual satisfaction. You feed, water, and trim the plant, guiding it as it takes shape and grows into a fully realized design for you to enjoy and feel proud of. Small or large, live topiaries are tangible meditation, visible imagination, and, ultimately, just a fun way to garden and decorate.
Topiary combines mythological appeal with refined decorum. What else in our lives is such a perfect blend of science and art? Now that you've decided what type of topiary is best for your lifestyle or event - artificial, preserved, or real - you can move on to the fun part and decide what shape and size plants you will put where. You can't go wrong with topiary, no matter what type of plant you choose.