How to create amazing hedge shapes

June 13, 2012, 5:33 pm Yahoo!7

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Topiary is back in vogue. And for good reason, too. The clever sculpting of plants into verdant pieces of living art is a fabulous way to introduce structure, texture and year-round interest to your garden.

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Gather your supplies

Wire frame (we used a wombat)

Potting mix

Small-leafed plants, such as Lonicera nitida, Buxus microphylla var. japonica or Buxus sempervirens

Planter box (to suit size of wire frame)

Cordless shears

Secateurs

Trowel (optional)

Seaweed-based plant food

Slow-release fertiliser

Notes:

Keeping your topiary trim and terrific is simple when you have the right tools. Depending on the size of your plants, hand shears or scissors are ideal for routine maintenance. However, if you have several shapes that require trimming, use a battery-powered hedge trimmer or shears – these tools can take the strain off your hands. To prolong the life of your tools, keep them clean, lubricated and sharp.

Here's How

Step 1: Fill planter box almost to brim with potting mix. Position frame in planter and press down so legs make imprints in mix. Remove frame and dig holes where imprints are located, large enough to accommodate root balls of each plant.
Step 2: Remove plants from pots, place in holes and backfill.
Step 3: Place frame on top and feed plants into legs. Trim back any branches protruding from frame, then water in with seaweed solution and feed with fertiliser. Prune plants as they grow, shaping to fit frame.