When to cut box topiary

Ah, the satisfying snip of the shears shaping a box topiary! Or more realistically, the gentle buzz of electric hedge clippers. It’s a rewarding task, and timing is key to keeping these evergreen sculptures looking their best. Let’s delve into when to cut box topiary and hedges.

Some of the 150,000 hand-pruned boxwoods at The Marqueyssac Gardens, Dordogne, France.

Box (Buxus sempervirens) generally benefits from two clipping sessions a year. The first should be in late spring or early summer, around May or June, after the initial flush of new growth has matured. This sets the shape for the main growing season. The second trim should follow in late summer or early autumn, around August or September. This tidies up any subsequent growth and ensures a neat appearance throughout the winter months. Some gardeners in milder damper regions in the south-west or Wales, might even opt for a very light third trim in early spring if needed to remove any winter damage or stray shoots.

Here’s a quick summary to keep in mind for your box topiary:

First clip: Late spring/early summer (May/June)
Second clip: Late summer/early autumn (August/September)
Light tidy (optional, milder climates): Early spring

For seasonal reminders, expert advice and inspiration on all things topiary, James Todman is a fantastic account to follow on Instagram.

Box is naturally a woodland understory shrub, so thrives under trees and in shady spots. Be careful not to let autumn leaves sit on clipped topiary over winter as this will cause bare patches to form. A rake and leaf-blower do a good job. Here, free-form box shapes flow under trees at The Marqueyssac Gardens.

Beyond the timing of your clipping, a few general tips will help keep your box topiary thriving and looking sharp:

Choose a dull day: Avoid clipping in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the newly exposed foliage. Overcast days are ideal.
Use sharp shears: Sharp blades will make clean cuts, reducing damage to the plant and resulting in a neater finish.
Work from the top down: This allows you to see the overall shape as you go and prevents debris from falling onto already clipped areas.
Take your time: Shaping topiary is an art form, so don’t rush the process. Step back frequently to assess your progress.
Consider the plant’s health: Avoid clipping stressed or unhealthy plants. Ensure they are well-watered and fed before any significant pruning.
Keep leaf litter at bay: Over autumn and winter, fallen leaves can become trapped within the dense foliage of your box. This can lead to dampness, fungal issues, and a generally untidy appearance. Gently brush or pick away any accumulated leaf litter regularly. In the UK, this is particularly important during our often damp autumns and winters.
Water wisely: While established box is relatively drought-tolerant, consistent watering during dry spells, especially for younger plants, is crucial for healthy growth. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Feed sparingly: A light feed in spring can encourage healthy growth, but avoid excessive fertilisation, which can result in weak, leggy growth that spoils the shape. A balanced, slow-release fertiliser is usually best.
Monitor for pests and diseases: Regularly inspect your box topiary for any signs of pests like box tree caterpillars or diseases such as box blight. Early detection and treatment are key to preventing significant damage. Given the prevalence of box blight in the UK, vigilance is key.

By following these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to maintaining beautifully sculpted box topiary that will enhance your garden for years to come. Happy clipping!

Owen Hayman

Owen joined the Bestall & Co planting and aftercare team in spring 2019. He is an RHS qualified horticulturist, holding a full Level 3 Diploma in Horticulture, and recently came in the top 3 at the Northern Regional Final of The Young Horticulturist of the Year 2019. After first doing a foundation diploma in Fine Art, he went on to gain a degree and masters in Plant and Soil Science from the University of Sheffield in 2014. Owen worked as a researcher on various field research projects in Alaska, Panama and Borneo. When not away in the field, he became obsessed with visiting gardens and nurseries across the British Isles and the Netherlands, developing his own garden, and then taking on a walled allotment garden as a personal project. He realised his true passion was in horticulture, and so moved away from academia and into the world of specialist plant nurseries and professional gardening.

Owen is now studying the Wisley Diploma, but continues to write articles for us on a monthly basis, and we're delighted to maintain contact with such a passionate and knowledgable plantsman.

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