Grow Gorgeous Topiary Indoors

Growing plants indoors is even more fun when you create topiaries. With decorative shapes fashioned out of plants, you can test your green thumb on a variety of topiary options, including hearts, spirals, hoops, ovals, and animal shapes like rabbits, elephants, and swans.

The art of shaping plants into intricate forms dates back to the 14th century, when Egyptians and Romans created decorative shapes for their gardens. You can bring topiary to your indoor space by following these helpful tips.

Topiary Framing

Topiary frames are typically made of wire. You can create a simple two-dimensional frame, such as a heart or hoop, or a more complex three-dimensional shape like a cone, ball, or animal figure. Cute frames are also widely available for purchase.

Once the frame is ready, place it securely in a pot that accommodates its base to ensure stability.

Choosing Topiary Plants

Several indoor plants, such as ivy and moss, are ideal for topiary. Good choices include topiary moss and English ivy (Hedera helix). Look for plants with small to medium leaves. Other suitable topiary plants include creeping fig (Ficus pumila), hoya, rosemary, creeping thyme, grape ivy (Cissus rhombifolia), pothos, and wandering Jew (Tradescantia species).

Some topiary plants need a frame covered in sphagnum moss, as this allows them to put down clinging roots as they grow.

Training Topiary

Wrap already-growing topiary plants around the frame, securing them with green garden tape or plant clips. Small plants may take time to grow onto the frame; as they do, continue to secure them in place. Regularly pinch and prune your topiary to shape it, keeping the growth within 1 inch of the frame.

Indoor Topiary Care

• Watering: Keep topiary soil evenly moist but not soggy. Frames made of sphagnum moss require regular misting. If the frame dries out, soak it in lukewarm water until it is saturated.

• Fertilizing: Feed topiary plants monthly with a well-balanced organic fertilizer to promote growth.

• Lighting: Most topiary plants need bright, indirect light or artificial lighting. Without sufficient light, they may struggle to grow and are more susceptible to pests and disease.

Providing Humidity

Many topiary plants, such as moss, thrive in humid conditions. Use a fine mist sprayer to moisten them throughout the day and consider placing the topiary on a humidity tray.

Watch for Pests

Spider mites are common in topiaries, especially in dry, warm homes with poor air circulation. Prevent infestations by keeping plants well-watered and misting them regularly. Improve air circulation by opening windows or using a fan. If you find spider mites, rinse the plant thoroughly every two to three days for a couple of weeks until they’re controlled.

Send Topiary on an Outdoor Vacation

Topiary plants often benefit from outdoor time. From spring through fall, place them in a bright shaded area once a week during the day and bring them indoors at night.

By following these tips, you can create beautiful, healthy topiaries that thrive indoors year-round.