Topiary

Have you ever seen plants in the shape or form of animals?  Do you know what it's called when plants are grown that way?  And, what types of plants are used? If you've ever had the opportunity to visit a theme park you probably ran across a plant that looks like a lion, tiger or bear - oh my.  

When you see this type of landscape art it's called Topiary.

Now, topiary isn't a genetic thing, plants have to be purposely shaped into those forms.  And, if you look real close - they are supported by chicken wire that was shaped into the animal form with a plant growing just outside the wire. 

The nice thing about topiary is that you don't need to be a vet in order to grow one.  I recommend starting off by growing topiary out of a container. 

Wire forms can be picked up at your local nursery.  Plants best used need small leaves like: boxwood or eugenia.  You can even use Ivy.