What You Will Need
- Pruning shears or hedge trimmers
- Gardening gloves
- Measuring tape
- Rope or twine
Step 1: Choose the Right Time to Prune
Boxwood shrubs can be pruned anytime between late winter and early spring, before new growth appears. This allows the shrub to recover quickly and minimizes the risk of damage.
Step 2: Prepare Your Tools
Ensure your pruning shears or hedge trimmers are sharp and clean. Blunt tools can damage the branches and hinder the healing process. Wearing gardening gloves will protect your hands from scratches and prickly thorns.
Step 3: Measure and Visualize
Use a measuring tape to determine the desired size and shape of your boxwood ball. This step will help maintain symmetry and ensure your boxwood ball fits harmoniously into your garden landscape. Visualize the final shape to guide your pruning process.
Step 4: Start Pruning from the Top
To achieve a ball shape, start by pruning the top of the boxwood shrub. This step helps control the overall height and ensures an even growth pattern.
Step 5: Create a Temporal Guide
Take a piece of rope or twine and secure it around the shrub at the desired width of the ball shape you want to achieve. This makeshift guide will help you maintain consistency while pruning.
Step 6: Prune the Sides
Working your way from the top, use your pruning shears or hedge trimmers to prune the sides of the shrub. Start from the top down, following the shape of your temporal guide. Take your time to ensure clean and straight cuts.
Step 7: Regular Maintenance
Once you have achieved the desired ball shape, regularly monitor and trim new growth to maintain the shape. Lightly prune throughout the year to encourage a denser growth pattern.
Pruning boxwood into a ball shape can be a rewarding and visually appealing addition to your garden. By following this step-by-step guide, you will be able to achieve a perfectly shaped boxwood ball that enhances the beauty of your outdoor space. Remember to prune during the appropriate time and regularly maintain the shape for long-lasting results.