Topiary is putting it rather strongly. There are no elaborate geometric forms, leaping dolphins or stags at bay in the Dumfriesshire Garden. But over the lifetime of the garden I have come to appreciate more and more the evergreens (and the beech hedging) that we have been able to clip into pleasing shapes. In truth I wish I had planted more yew, box, and ilex in years gone by. Especially at this time of year, when their clipped forms seem to emerge from herbaceous borders, come increasingly into view, and give structure and elegance to the garden.
Recently I have discovered a faster growing alternative holly and yew, in the form of lonicera nitida. This tough plant not only establishes itself quickly, but cuttings that fall to the ground from the shears are quick to take root, thereby providing a steady supply of new cuttings which can be brought on in pots before planting out around the garden. This lovely lonicera ring, seen below, surrounding a garden table and chairs was planted in spring 2020 and is already one of the most striking feature in the garden. So topiary may not be the long game that many people think. I am certainly planning more creations, and using home grown material to create them.
The full list of pieces that make up my A-Z in the Dumfriesshire Garden in 2024 can be found here: https://davidgrahamclark.net/a-z-of-the-dumfriesshire-garden-in-2024/
Quotidian 