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Topiary is experiencing a revival of interest. Step-by-step photography illustrates innovative design projects, suitable for courtyard gardens, and both large and small gardens.'

"Topiary, knots, and parterres come in many guises, from the grand and imposing to the humble and folksy. In this book Caroline Foley -- with the aid of diarists, writers, wits, designers, gardeners, and garden owners -- traces their story through the centuries and across the world"--Jacket flap.

Of historical interest to gardening enthusiasts and historians this topiary gardening guide gives practical advice as well as a fascinating account of topiary through the ages. Topiary, the art of trimming hedges, shrubs, and trees into ornamental shapes, is perhaps the most distinct and fascinating branch of landscape horticulture. Its best known example, the palace gardens of Versailles, stands as a splendid monument to perfection, but today many a finely clipped privet and sheared yew are to be found in the humbler gardens of rural England. This book, first published in 1904, is a classic in the subject, written by two foremost experts of the day: Charles H. Curtis, a Fellow of the Royal Horticultural Society and formerly at Kew Gardens near London, and W. Gibson, head gardener of one of the finest topiary gardens in Britain at Levens Hall. Gibson here draws on a wealth of practical experience to provide sound advice to aspiring topiarists. His practical sections include The Formation of a Topiary Garden, Planting, and The Training of Young Trees. Curtis traces the long history of topiary from its early origins in ancient Greece to the grand gardens of his time.

Unlock the world of living sculptures with "Topiary Tales," a captivating journey into the art of shaping nature's canvas. Dive into the enchanting realm where creativity meets green thumb expertise, and discover how to transform your garden into a whimsical landscape of grace and beauty. Begin your adventure with an insightful introduction to topiary. Unearth its rich origins, track its stylistic evolution, and see how it breathes life into modern outdoor spaces. Whether you're a curious beginner or a seasoned gardener, this eBook guides you through every twist and turn of topiary creation. Selecting and caring for your topiary plants is an art unto itself. Learn to choose the perfect plant suited for your climate, gather essential tools, and master the seasonal care techniques that keep foliage flourishing year-round. Venture further to explore the structure of topiary animals. From simple shapes to complex creature designs, discover how to balance creativity with plant health. Chapter by chapter, you'll build your skills—designing your first topiary animal, delving into advanced techniques, and integrating these magnificent forms into your garden design. "Topiary Tales" doesn't stop at traditional forms. Embrace new creative avenues with geometric shapes, living walls, and themed holiday topiary. Urban gardeners will find inspiration in small garden projects with vertical designs and container topiary perfect for compact spaces. Marvel at inspiration drawn from famous gardens worldwide, from historical European estates to contemporary public masterpieces. Troubleshoot common issues and learn sustainable practices for a greener, more mindful approach. Finally, become part of a thriving community of topiary enthusiasts. Share your passion in garden clubs, participate in lively competitions, and connect through social media. As you turn the final page, you'll not only have mastered the art of topiary, but you'll also have unlocked a world of creativity, serenity, and enduring appeal in your green spaces. Discover the magic of "Topiary Tales," where every leaf tells a story and every garden becomes a masterpiece.

This is an essential book for anyone interested in the shaping of plants for inside decoration. It shows how classical, formal shapes can be achieved quickly and tastefully and is a mine of information and inspiration.

Whether focusing on deadheading or disbudding techniques to produce abundant flowers, cutting back in preparation for winter, clipping fruit trees for increased yield, or shaping topiaries, this book spells out each lesson in detail. The drawings demonstrate the correct approaches to this essential process, and color photographs display precisely pruned plants.

Unveil the art of green transformation with "Budding Mastery," your definitive guide to the enchanting world of topiary. This captivating eBook invites you to explore the ancient craft of sculpting living plants into breathtaking works of art, offering both serenity and a touch of whimsy to any garden or living space. In "Budding Mastery," embark on a journey that begins with the rich history of topiary, as you draw inspiration from remarkable creations around the globe. As you dive deeper, learn to choose the perfect plant canvas, whether you prefer the year-round vibrancy of evergreens or the seasonal beauty of deciduous plants. Equip yourself with essential tools and techniques that transform mere foliage into stunning shapes and structures. Transform your creative vision into reality as you master the art of sketching and planning, and understand how to harmonize geometry and natural growth. Whether you're a beginner sculpting your first simple form or an intermediate artist crafting whimsical designs, this guide provides step-by-step instructions to nurture your budding talent. Embrace the diversity of styles, from the elegance of formal topiary to the playful ease of more whimsical creations. Discover how to maintain your living masterpiece through the seasons, ensuring its vitality and beauty year-round. For those with limited space, innovative techniques for balcony gardens and indoor miniatures open up new possibilities. "Budding Mastery" also explores how topiary can transform landscapes, enhancing garden designs and creating focal points that captivate the imagination. Delve into sustainable practices and eco-friendly techniques, ensuring that your art is as kind to the earth as it is beautiful. Finally, be inspired by stories of fellow novices who have blossomed into skilled topiarists, gaining not just a hobby, but a community of fellow enthusiasts. As you reflect on your own journey, set new goals and celebrate your achievements. Let "Budding Mastery" be your companion in cultivating a lifelong passion for living artistry.

This compilation of practical, proven techniques from a trained botanist on how to quickly and successfully grow distinctive topiaries and green sculptures for home and garden includes step-by-step instructions and more than 300 full-color drawings and photos which illustrate basic techniques.