Here's How

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  Step 1: Remove plant from pot and tap to remove soil from root ball. Part buxus in middle to find branches where longer shoots will grow – these will form bird’s head and neck.
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  Step 2: To form head and neck, hook wire onto 1 branch at the central stem to anchor it, then wrap wire around designated branches.
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  Step 3: Cut back thickest branches all over buxus, leaving wispier ones to cover cut stubs – this creates a feathery look. Trim and shape buxus into bird’s breast and tail. If you want to add more definition to the tail, wrap branches with copper wire.
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  Step 4: Fill two thirdss of pot with potting mix and position topiary in pot. Set root ball a little above rim of pot – to create the best display for your work of art – and backfill.
• Step 5: Prune in spring or early summer, clipping to emphasise shape.