If you are looking to add finesse and character to your next landscape project or garden, topiaries could be just what the Rockland County, NY, property needs. Adding topiary plantings can offer a dramatic feel that will bring a landscape to life. With the fall season upon us and winter around the corner, it is the perfect time to think about how topiary plants can incorporate the magic of the holiday season into your landscape design. However, even the best landscape design pros know that there are many factors to consider before choosing the right topiary plantings for a specific outdoor area. Here are three important questions to ask your landscape supply source about their topiary planting options.
1. What plants make the best topiaries for our hardiness zone?
While there are several species of plants that can be used for topiary, you will likely want an evergreen. Evergreens are trees and shrubs that bear leaves and foliage with rich color year round offering you optimal enjoyment. This means that winter landscaping can be less of a challenge to keep lush.
2. What are the different types of evergreens you supply that are suitable for topiary?
Although there are many different types of evergreen trees and shrubs for use in topiary some of the most popular are the Boxwood, Japanese Holly, Myrtle, Yew, Dwarf Alberta Spruce, bay laurel, and the Privet. The differences between these evergreens are going to be growth height and width, leaf size and texture, the shaping and manipulating capabilities, and planting and placement recommendations.
3. Where should I place my topiaries?
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The first step is determining where the topiary planting should go. Around and on pool decks, patios, and porches could be perfect areas for topiary as they are easily visible and bring natural elements to hardscape and architectural features. However, it is likely wiser to use trees or shrubs that are suitable for pots, planters, and other containers in these types of outdoor spaces.
If you are looking for larger scale topiary for lawns and in other expansive areas, or to incorporate hedging and borders, you will want faster growing, planted evergreens with dense foliage that is easy to sculpt. Other factors to consider are sunlight and temperature exposure, as well as the container material for potted topiary. While most evergreens will thrive well in full sunlight to partial shade, there may some variations specific to the topiary you’ll be working with, so sunlight exposure should be addressed before placement. Additionally, some evergreens are more susceptible to freeze temperatures, especially when potted, so extra care will need to be taken during the frigid winter months to ensure the integrity of the topiary.
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The types of containers that topiary are planted in will also play a role in how well the topiary retains its look year-round. Some potting containers are made from porous materials such as terra cotta and will hold moisture. This can cause the container to crack and also lead to damage to the root structure. Finding a container suitable for the winter conditions will help prevent these issues. If you are unsure of what will be best for your topiary plans, your landscape supply experts can certainly help.
