Topiaries
Topiaries were first created for outdoor use. However the concept of a living sculpture is also a popular way to grow and display several types of indoor houseplants and tender herbs.
Ivy is probably the houseplant most commonly used as an indoor topiary. Ivies grown indoors prefer to be kept in a bright light location with moderate temperatures. It is beneficial to rotate them to the light source to maintain a full and balanced appearance.
Dry warm air caused by heating and cooling systems can rob topiaries of some of their moisture. It is helpful to treat Ivy topiaries with a monthly shower of water or a mild solution ( 1 tsp. to 1 gal.) of Dawn or Joy dish detergent. This rinses the dust off the foliage, thereby discouraging spider mites.
Allow the Ivy topiary to dry out between waterings, then drench the plant thoroughly. Fertilize every other watering with half strength houseplant fertilizer.
The shape of topiaries can be maintained by pruning or winding the tendrils around the topiary frame. Remove any dead leaves or dying stems that may appear.
Other houseplants can also be used to create a living topiary. Angel Vine and Jasmine have a more delicate leaf shape and create a lovely appearance. The herb Rosemary is frequently displayed in topiary form and gives the added pleasure of it's wonderful fragrance.
By Gayla Parker
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses
Ivy is probably the houseplant most commonly used as an indoor topiary. Ivies grown indoors prefer to be kept in a bright light location with moderate temperatures. It is beneficial to rotate them to the light source to maintain a full and balanced appearance.
Dry warm air caused by heating and cooling systems can rob topiaries of some of their moisture. It is helpful to treat Ivy topiaries with a monthly shower of water or a mild solution ( 1 tsp. to 1 gal.) of Dawn or Joy dish detergent. This rinses the dust off the foliage, thereby discouraging spider mites.
Allow the Ivy topiary to dry out between waterings, then drench the plant thoroughly. Fertilize every other watering with half strength houseplant fertilizer.
The shape of topiaries can be maintained by pruning or winding the tendrils around the topiary frame. Remove any dead leaves or dying stems that may appear.
Other houseplants can also be used to create a living topiary. Angel Vine and Jasmine have a more delicate leaf shape and create a lovely appearance. The herb Rosemary is frequently displayed in topiary form and gives the added pleasure of it's wonderful fragrance.
By Gayla Parker
Gardening Expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses
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