Determining the wire gauge for your topiary is important. It serves the purpose answers the question, can my topiary hold plants on it or can the topiary sustain strong wind forces, etc.
The smaller topiary frames use a smaller gauge wire rod (1/8″ or less) as they do not need much support for the structural weight. The larger-scaled topiary frames, such as a horse, require a larger gauge wire rod (1/4″ or larger) as they are heavier and need more structural support for weight and stability.
Picture of smaller topiary using 1/8 inch gauge wire.
In addition, if the topiary is to live outside, we suggest to galvanized the topiary metal so it will not rust. Learn more here.
The smaller topiary frames use a smaller gauge wire rod (1/8″ or less) as they do not need much support for the structural weight. The larger-scaled topiary frames, such as a horse, require a larger gauge wire rod (1/4″ or larger) as they are heavier and need more structural support for weight and stability.
Picture of smaller topiary using 1/8 inch gauge wire.
Any open-wire topiary frame that does not have a covering (foliage) should withstand normal wind conditions. Large-scaled topiary frames that are covered or will be in high wind environments would need additional internal supports that connect to its base. This is typically done with a larger rod. In this specific case of a horse in 70mph winds, the 1/4″ wire rod with one or two 3/8″ rods for internal structural support would work just fine. The base could be bolted down to a concrete pad/footing. If the horse will be covered, then it may need a few more 3/8″ rods for additional support/stability. Here is a picture of a topiary using a 3/8 inch gauge wire.
Our is my recommendation for longterm outdoor use with the worst possible wind conditions. Anything smaller than the 1/4″ wire rod and no internal support runs the risk of being damaged.
