How to Make a Spiral Topiary
Spiral topiaries make attractive additions to a yard, especially flanking an entrance. Making a topiary is a simple matter of careful and continued pruning. You need to start with a full, cone-shaped evergreen. One variety that works especially well is the Picea glauco "Conica," commonly known as the Dwarf Alberta Spruce. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Wind the masking tape around the tree in a spiral. On an average-sized evergreen, you want to divide the tree into three sections. Position the tape so the sections get thicker toward the base.
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Starting at the top, use pruning shears to cut back the branches above and below the tape. At the very top, aim for removing all but a 2- or 3-inch strip of greenery.
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As you work your way down, decrease the number of branches you remove so the spiral widens gradually toward the base.
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Remove the masking tape and trim the remaining branches to emphasize the spiral shape. Create smooth, rounded edges and a graceful swirl. Protect the topiary from strong sunlight for its first two weeks.
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Prune your topiary each spring. Shade it from strong sunlight for two weeks after each pruning.
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Tips & Warnings
Wear gardening gloves when working with evergreens. They can be prickly.
