Topiary balls, those perfectly spherical shrubs meticulously sculpted into a uniform shape, have long been a symbol of sophistication and refinement in gardens worldwide. In Perth, with its Mediterranean climate and thriving gardening culture, these timeless creations have become a popular choice for adding a touch of elegance and visual interest to outdoor spaces.

The History of Topiary Balls

The practice of topiary, the art of training plants into specific shapes, dates back to ancient Rome. The Romans were skilled in creating intricate topiary designs, including animals, people, and geometric shapes. However, the popularity of topiary waned during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, only to be revived in the 17th century.

Both homeowners and landscape designers in Perth have embraced topiary balls. The city's mild climate and ample sunlight provide ideal conditions for cultivating healthy and vibrant shrubs that can be shaped into perfect spheres.

The Benefits of Topiary Balls

There are several advantages to incorporating topiary balls into your Perth garden:

• Visual Interest: Topiary balls create a focal point in your garden, drawing the eye and adding a sense of balance and symmetry.
• Low Maintenance: Once established, topiary balls require minimal maintenance. They are relatively drought-tolerant and can be shaped with a pair of shears a few times a year.
• Versatility: Topiary balls can be used in various garden settings, from formal to informal. They can be placed on their own or as part of a larger design.
• Increased Property Value: A well-maintained garden with topiary balls can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home and increase its value.

Choosing the Right Shrubs for Topiary Balls

Not all shrubs are suitable for creating topiary balls. The best choices are those with dense, fine-textured foliage and a compact growth habit. Here are some popular options for Perth gardens:

• Buxus sempervirens: A classic choice for topiary, buxus is slow-growing, evergreen, and tolerates pruning well.
• Melanie: This evergreen shrub is known for its dense, dark green foliage and compact growth habit. It is a popular choice for topiary balls and can tolerate pruning well.
• Eucaluptus: While not as common for topiary balls as other shrubs, certain species of eucaluptus, such as Eucalyptus cinerea (Silver Dollar Gum), can be trained into spherical shapes. Their fragrant foliage adds a unique touch to gardens.
• Photinia: Photinia is known for its stunning new growth, which is a bright red color. It can be shaped into topiary balls and provides year-round interest.

Creating and Maintaining Topiary Balls

If you're new to topiary, it's best to start with a small shrub and gradually work your way up to larger balls. Here are some tips for creating and maintaining topiary balls:

1. Choose a suitable location: Select a spot in your garden that receives ample sunlight and is protected from strong winds.
2. Plant the shrub: Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball and fill it with well-draining soil. Plant the shrub at the same depth as it was growing in the nursery.
3. Shape the ball: Once the shrub has established itself, start shaping it into a ball. Use a pair of sharp shears to trim away any excess growth.
4. Regular maintenance: To maintain the shape of your topiary ball, prune it a few times a year. Remove any dead or damaged branches and trim away any growth that is outside the desired shape.

Topiary Balls in Perth: A Showcase of Elegance

Perth is home to many stunning gardens that feature topiary balls. From the formal gardens of Kings Park to the private estates of the wealthy, these elegant creations can be found throughout the city.

Smiley's Home Improvements is proud to offer a range of topiary services in Perth. Our experienced team can help you choose the right shrubs for your garden, create beautiful topiary balls, and provide ongoing maintenance.



Contact us today to learn more about our topiary services and how we can help you transform your outdoor space.