The ancient Romans already knew how to cut boxwoods and other evergreen plants into artistic, decorative shapes. The topiary can be limited to simple geometric structures such as balls or cubes, but can also be quite extravagant: even a spiral-shaped box tree in the front garden is an eye-catcher.
How do I cut a boxwood into spirals?
To cut a boxwood into a spiral, choose a tall growing variety, first cut into a cone shape, then tie a string in a wide spiral around the plant and cut the branches in this spiral shape. Proceed carefully and evenly.
Instructions for spiral cutting
In order to create a successful spiral cut even without a finished frame, you first need a suitable type of boxwood. Here you should choose a tall variant such as 'Rotundifolia', which is already at least one meter high. First cut this book into a cone shape:
- Tie several canes together in a tent shape at their top ends.
- These form an effective guideline for the cut.
- Now cut back excess growth until the plant is level with the stakes.
The spiral cut can then be made. Proceed as follows:
- Tie a string to the top of the plant.
- Wrap the string in a wide spiral around the bush.
- Finally, tie it to the bottom of the trunk.
- Cut the lower branches in the spiral shape dictated by the thread.
- Do this as evenly as possible.
Don't cut too much off at once, but rather go slowly: "Cut little and often" is the motto for successful topiary. Too drastic an approach leads to unbalanced forms that need at least a year to grow to some extent. After cutting, the boxwood should be provided with organic fertilizer and watered regularly so that it recovers from the strain of pruning.
The right tool
Always use very sharp and clean tools for topiary as the soft shoots you remove are very juicy and easily susceptible to disease if torn. Targeted and precise cuts are also not possible on flexible shoots with blunt tools. In order to avoid a dangerous fungal infection, it also makes sense to disinfect with an alcohol solution (at least 70%). Sheep shearing scissors are perfect for an easy and precise cut.
Tip
The spiral shape looks particularly harmonious when the box stands on a wide base and tapers evenly towards the tip.
