Topiary

I'm probably the last person you would want to ask for topiary advice.

Topiaries seem to have made a huge comeback in recent years and one of the things I learned on the show is that less is more. Simple is better. Hand clippers work best. Take your time and let the tree speak to you. Take in to account the way it is growing, ( if it leans to one side, think of a shape that is asymmetrical) the number of stalks,( if there are five stalks, don't try to force a spiral), the pattern of fullness of the leaves. If there are no leaves on the inside, don't cut the visible clusters off the outside; you'll have a Charlie Brown Christmas tree.

Always think twice, cut once. And think in reverse, from ending to beginning. A topiary is like a living sculpture. Since I failed so miserably with my topiary, I bought three beauties when I got home and planted them in front of our home to teach myself topiary care and trimming techniques. So far, so good. I encourage you to jump on the topiary trend. They represent order, design, life and style and every home should have at least one!