Sphagnum
Topiary
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Creating an outdoor sphagnum topiary is almost exactly
the same as creating an indoor sphagnum-stuffed topiary.
The plant materials used are often different and topiaries
can be a bit bigger but the technique is very much
the same. In addition, sphagnum topiaries are also
much quicker to produce than shrub topiaries.
Time Required
Two to four hours
Directions
The great thing about sphagnum topiary is the results
are quick. When you’re finished you’ll
have a good idea of how your topiary will look in
its mature form. Access to water and a sturdy frame
are important, as the plants will have no roots in
the ground. Choose vining or compact plants. Sometimes
the best results are obtained by combining different
plants to reveal different colors or textures of a
shape like and animal or person.
-
Select a frame. These are often
available at garden centers and craft stores as
well as many online retailers. Frames also come
in all different sizes so select what suits your
needs the best.
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Soak the sphagnum moss until completely
saturated.
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Stuff the frame by packing the wet
sphagnum very tightly. When you think the frame
is full, add more. If your frame has extremities
like legs or a tail, start with them first and then
move into the bigger areas of the frame. You want
your frame very full, to the point where you can’t
quite see the frame anymore but can feel it under
a layer of the sphagnum.
-
Use the microfilament the tightly
wrap sections of the frame. Start by tying one end
to the frame, wrapping tightly and evenly (you don’t
want to be able to see the microfilament so space
it accordingly) then tying the other end off to
the frame as well.
- Take
a step back and see how things are looking. You can
use scissors to trim any sphagnum that seems to be
sticking way out of place.
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Have all your plants ready to go
and well watered before you start planting. You
may want to strategize and mark with a toothpick
where you anticipate planting.
- Using
a wooden dribble or screwdriver, make a one planting
hole. You’ll have to push hard. Be ready to
plant, as the moss will fill back in quickly.
-
Place the plant plugs into the planting
holes securely. Cover the exposed soil with the
moss.
- If using vining plants, extend the
runners along the surface of the moss and use hair
pins to secure. If kept moist, these stems will root
into the moss.
-
10. Be sure to place the topiary
where it will get adequate sunlight. Check everyday
for water. You can spray gently with a hose of spray
bottle or if small enough, submerge in a pail of
water. Never let your topiary dry out.
-
Because the sphagnum moss doesn’t
provide the plants with any nutrients, you’ll
need to fertilize every other week during the growing
season and about once a month in the winter. Use
a diluted liquid fertilizer after watering.
-
Continue to prune and pin trailing
vines as needed to maintain shape and encourage
the topiary to fill in.
