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Overview
If you think topiary is pricey, then make your own with one of these metal spiral plant supports. Given time, ivy will cover the frame, to give you a stylish evergreen display at a fraction of the cost of clipped topiary. If you shop carefully, you should be able to buy all the ingredients for your plant support from a garden centre or DIY store for less than £10.
Do it:
all year round
Takes just:
30 minutes
How to do it
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Cut a 3m length of wire and bend it into a spiral. Place it flat on the ground so it does not tangle, and you can see it taking shape. -
Wrap the centre of the spiral around the top of the cane, leaving a little spare wire. Bend the spare wire back on itself and push it into the top of the cane -
Fill the pot with compost and position the cane and spiral in the centre. Cut small pieces of wire and bend them in half to secure the spiral at the base. -
Plant an ivy at the base of the spiral and train it up the wire. Tie the plant in with soft twine as it grows, cutting off any stray bits.
"For a different effect, try using variegated ivy. You'll still get that topiary look, but with a twist."
