Anyone for a haircut?

When it comes to gardening pruning is not my strongest point.  So I approached my first attempt at the ancient art of topiary with some trepidation!
What is the worse thing that could happen? Probably I would cut too much off. But then it will grow again eventually. A bit like the hairdresser being a bit too scissor happy.

With all new subjects it helps to do a bit of research. This is what I found out:

• First of all you need the right equipment.  I've had a shiny new pair of sheers sitting in their box waiting for such an occasion. I also have a small pair of horticutural scissors for the odd tweak.

•  Many people trim a box ball by eye but if you find this difficult use a circle of wire  as a template. If you want a whole row of box balls the wire template can be used again and again.

• Clean the shears between trimming each plant and keep them well oiled. That way disease can't be passed from plant to plant. This is true for any pruning exercise.

• Container grown box should be kept watered and fed with a liquid feed during the summer months. A top dressing of compost in the spring keeps the plant healthy and green.

• Trim the box on cool, over-caste days as the new growth is easily burnt by strong sunlight.

Sounds like a piece of cake

This is what the plants looked like after my gentle trim.

There's not much difference that I can see!
They are both basically the same shape which is not round more of an oval really. Not a great success. I think perhaps they could do with a feed and more water. They may also need potting on.

And there I was yearning for balls, spirals and cones not to mention the odd peacock or two. Maybe next time....