Boxwood is ideal for topiary, which the ancient Romans already understood as the artful training and pruning of trees and bushes. Many traditional gardens in France, Italy and other Mediterranean countries are still designed around pruned evergreen trees and shrubs. A classic shape is the pyramid.
How do I cut a boxwood into a pyramid shape?
To cut a boxwood in a pyramid shape, use a wire template or tent-tied canes as a cutting guide. Cut off anything that grows beyond the frame and repeat the cut at least twice a year, in late April to mid-May and no later than July.
These boxwood varieties are suitable for a pyramid cut
Topiary is the art of transforming living plants into sculptures. Simple geometric figures like the pyramid are the easiest to create. Choose fast-growing varieties that naturally grow taller, such as 'Rotundifolia'. However, varieties such as 'Herrenhausen' or 'Blauer Heinz', which are so popular for borders or spherical cuts, are not suitable.
Cutting a pyramid – this is how it works
To get the boxwood into the desired shape, you can purchase a suitable wire template from the store. Simply put these over the plant – make sure the sizes match! – and cut off everything that sticks out of the wire frame. In the first few years, the frame may still be visible or holes may remain in the bush. However, both grow over time and you can also remove the wire frame after cutting. Instead, you can also tie canes together in a tent shape and put this over the box before cutting. This also gives you a framework that you can stick to when cutting.
Topiary means a lot of work for the gardener
Don't start topiary in your garden if you don't have the time and patience (or a gardener!) to consistently care for it. Each time you prune, you remove all young, strong new shoots and weaken the plant. Fertilizing, watering and weeding are therefore essential. Use a slow-release organic fertilizer (such as compost) that improves soil structure and provides nutrients. In addition, a topiary requires you to use secateurs more often: you should trim the pyramid at least twice a year, otherwise it will lose its appearance. The first cut takes place between the end of April and mid-May, the second in July at the latest.
Tip
Use boxwood trees cut into pyramids to create simple but effective classic passageways. You can also use this and other shapes to line a door, a path or an avenue.