{"id":21906,"date":"2022-10-12T13:36:27","date_gmt":"2022-10-12T13:36:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/topiarystagstg.wpengine.com\/?page_id=21906"},"modified":"2025-08-16T07:08:47","modified_gmt":"2025-08-16T07:08:47","slug":"faq-topiary-trees","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/topiarytree.net\/?page_id=21906","title":{"rendered":"FAQ: Topiary Trees"},"content":{"rendered":"\r\n

Topiary Tree FAQ Page<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Whether your topiary tree is in a pot or a focal point in your garden, you want to keep it looking green and healthy. You\u2019ve got trimming down. After all, it\u2019s just clipping off long growth but there\u2019s more to caring for a topiary. If you have a topiary or are thinking about getting one, here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about these decorative trees.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

FAQ About Topiary Trees<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Some questions you\u2019ll want to ask your local arborist, like which specimens are right for your growing zone. Some trees do best in colder climates, while others love heat and plenty of sunlight.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

How Do You Maintain a Topiary Tree<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Paying attention to three things will help keep your topiary thriving.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

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  1. Watering is crucial. Potted topiaries often need more water than planted trees. A good tip is to check the soil moisture with your finger. If it\u2019s dry, it is time to water.\u00a0<\/li>\r\n
  2. Foliar or slow-releasing fertilizer is recommended. It encourages growth and a healthy root system.\u00a0<\/li>\r\n
  3. Topiaries do not need a lot of pruning to keep their shape, and timing is crucial. The best time to trim topiaries is in the early summer.\u00a0<\/li>\r\n
  4. Outdoor Boxwoods care varies. We offer a\u00a0comprehensive guide on how to take care of outdoor boxwoods throughout the USA<\/a>.<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

    How Do You Take Care of a Topiary Tree in the Winter?<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

    Most topiary trees are dormant in the winter but check to make sure it applies to your plant. You can forgo fertilizing and pruning, but you may need to water occasionally. It depends on the climate and type of tree. You may have to cover your topiary in freezing temperatures. Avoid using plastic, it can freeze to the plant causing damage. You can find inexpensive clothes designed to protect plants from freezing. Old bed sheets also work, just be sure the plant is completely covered. Another tip is to pile mulch around the root base and lower trunk. You may lose some of the foliage to cold temperatures, but the plant will stay alive. In a few seasons, it will be back to its former appearance.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

    How Often Should You Water a Topiary Tree?<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

    It\u2019s easy to over or underwater a topiary tree. It doesn\u2019t matter if it is in a pot or planted in the ground. Potted plants will dry out faster, so be prepared for almost daily watering. If you see the soil starting to pull away from the pot, it\u2019s time to water. You can also do a finger test. Insert a finger a few inches into the soil for planted topiaries. If the soil is dry, go ahead and water. Topiaries in the ground generally need water two to three times a week, depending on average rainfall. Consider a preserved\u00a0Topiary Tree.\u00a0<\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

    How Do You Shape a Topiary Tree?<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

    Shaping a topiary tree is easier than you may imagine, especially if you keep up with the new growth. You already have the form to follow, you just have to keep the shape. You will need a pair of sharp pruners and a little patience. You want to trim slowly and only clip the new growth. Cutting too deep can ruin the topiary\u2019s shape. It\u2019s also best to trim in the morning. You have plenty of light without the afternoon heat.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

    Do Topiaries Die in the Winter?<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

    Most topiary trees do not die in the winter if they’re evergreen. Deciduous trees, ones that lose their leaves in the fall, are also often cold-weather hardy. You will find exceptions, some plants cannot survive in extended cold temperatures. These plants should stay in pots so you can move them inside during freezing weather. Your topiary should come with care instructions, if not ask your arborist if your topiary is winter-hardy.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

    Does a Topiary Need Full Sun?<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

    Topiaries in general require around 6 hours of full or partial sunlight. These are not shade-loving plants. If you notice yellowing leaves, and it\u2019s not due to improper watering, it can be a sign your topiary needs more sun.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

    What is the Best Plant for a Topiary<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

    You aren\u2019t limited on options when it comes to the types of topiaries, several species are ideal. Some are evergreens and others produce flowers or winter berries. Here are a few plants that are the best choice for a topiary tree.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n