How Do You Create An Herb Topiary?
An herb topiary is an herb that has been trained to a specific shape. Herb topiaries, also called standards, can be small for indoor or deck gardens, or large as a focal point in a formal herb garden. Some popular shapes are herb trees, with a single stem and a round ball of herb leaves at the top, or a multilayered topiary, that consists of many stems entwined around a wire form, creating a shape. These are often made into wreath shapes. To make an herb standard, start with herbs that have a sturdy stem. Rosemary, bay and lemon verbena are three types of herbs that work well in this style. Difficulty: AverageTime Required: One Hour Here’s How: • Choose a young, single stem herb. A woody stem is best. • Insert a stake, such as a chopstick or sturdy wire into the pot, all the way to the bottom. • Cut back all branches below the desired height. Keep leaves on the main stem only. • Tie stem to the chopstick or wire with soft twine at 1 1/2 inch intervals. • Keep the plant clean of any sid
