Bountiful Gardens

The Sculpted Greens: Indoor Topiary Species

Indoor topiaries are usually woody-stemmed plants that have been meticulously trained. They are perfect for adding height to a dining table or flanking a bright doorway.

Suggested Placement in the Home

• The "Sunniest Spot" Only: These plants are sun-worshippers. A South-facing window is non-negotiable. If you don't have one, a strong LED grow light is a must.

• The Cool Kitchen: Rosemary and Lavender love the slightly cooler, more humid air of a kitchen compared to a dry, overheated living room.

• Airflow is King: Avoid "stagnant" corners. Topiaries hate "stale" air, which can lead to spider mites or fungal issues. A spot with gentle air circulation is ideal.

Care & Maintenance

• The "Haircut" Rule: To maintain that crisp shape, you must prune. Every time a branch grows "out of bounds," snip it back to the original silhouette. This also encourages the plant to grow thicker and fuller.

• Rotation: To prevent one side from getting "bald" or leaning, rotate the pot a quarter-turn every week so all sides get equal sun.

• The Humidity Boost: Since our homes are often dry, especially in winter, place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water (the "humidity tray") to keep the air around the foliage moist.

The Essential Tip for Beginners

The "Touch Test": Unlike a Snake Plant, a topiary won't forgive you if you forget to water it for two weeks. Because they are in relatively small pots compared to their foliage mass, they dry out fast. Get into the habit of touching the soil every single morning. If the top half-inch feels dry, water it immediately. For topiaries, "consistency is more important than quantity."