Getting the Dirty Job Done -Part II

So, it's no longer a dirty job, but it's still the second part of the project. And it's still a little messy.

As I was telling you in yesterday's post, immediately after the sun came out, I got my hands ready to continue working on my latest project. I know you people have it figured out, of course. After all those inspirational pics from here and here, it's obvious I've been working on our balcony make over.

You probably know my plans for the Eugenia trees too.

That's right. I made a topiary. Actually, I made TWO topiaries. Wo-hoo! So if you're wondering how to make a topiary, you're in the right place.

How to Make a Topiary

tutorial

1. Start with a straight-center plant or tree.

I used Eugenias, but Boxwoods and Bay trees are also useful. You can even use a citrus tree.

2. Remove lower branches with garden scissors.

Work your way from bottom up.

3. Groom the topiary,

cutting off leaves or branches standing out.

4. In case your trunk is thin, place a thin stick into the soil next to the trunk and tie them together.

(In my case, this wasn't necessary)

5. Enjoy!

Before:

After:

Sigh. Isn't it lovely?

Some final notes:

At first, I wasn't sure I had bought the right kind of tree for the project. Topiaries in my inspirational images seemed young, with thin trunks. I was looking for that at the nursery garden, but topiaries aren't very popular around here. I guess I could have bought a new bush or tree, and trained it to grow as I wanted it. But I couldn't wait for it to grow up to the point I needed it. I wanted a topiary NOW.

The girl at the nursery adviced me to take this tree, and in the end, I'm happy with the results, though I would have rather gone for a slimmer trunk.

I hope you enjoyed the tutorial.
Stay tuned for the complete balcony makeover coming soon!

Sharing with

Strut your Stuff Thursday at Somewhat Simple
Transformation Thursday at The Shabby Chic Cottage
Get your Craft on Thurs at Life as Lori
Show off your Stuff at Fireflies and Jellybeans
Show and Tell Friday at My Romantic Home
Frugalicious Friday at Finding Fabulous
Remodelaholics Anonymous at Remodelaholic
Victory of the Week at Design-aholic
Saturday Nite Special at Funky Junk Interiors
Metamorphosis Monday at Between Naps on the Porch
Make it for Monday at Cottage Instincts
Making the World Cuter
Make your Monday at The Twice Remembered Cottage
Craft Schooling Sunday at Creative Jewish Mom
DIY Day at A Soft Place to Land
Toot your horn Tuesday at Silly Little Sparrow
Show and Tell at Blue Cricket Design
Penny Pinching Party at The Thrifty Home