My Myrtle Topiaries

I have been growing myrtle topiaries as houseplants for nearly 10 years.  I favor the small leaf variety myrtus communis compacta, which is great for shaping.  And, yes, I lost quite a few early on :(  

Here are growing tips on these finicky gems:

- Plenty of sunlight. Keep in sunroom or bright window with south / west exposure.

- Water! So important to not let them dry out. But, they should not sit in water for hours. Be diligent about watering topiaries that are root bound, which require frequent watering (and repotting eventually).   

- During the growing season (late March - early September), I use a liquid fertilizer (miracle grow in green bottle) once a month when I remember :)

- Many say to mist them, but I don’t bother as that is messy.

- To maintain a tight spherical form, clip often during the growing season. Do not shear or cut the leaves. Instead, snip at the branches / shoots. Where you snip a shoot two others will branch out, creating a fuller plant.   

- Do not place on heat register or radiator, unless you want them fried! 

- Move and rotate so they get the required sunlight. I switch out the pair on the mantel (of a dark room) with another pair from the conservatory every 4-5 days.

- I use a mild insecticidal soap spray if bugs are present.

Myrtle topiaries do require a level of care, but they are quite easy once you get the hang.  I especially love them in pairs on a mantel shelf, on a console table, or flanking the front door.

 I've had the pair (above) at my shop for almost 4 years.

 Pair of triple standards on my dining room console.

 A grouping of 5 in my mini conservatory.

 I love them in groups - 3 are also on the table.

 A topiary in my library (in desperate need of haircut).

If you have questions about myrtle topiaries, just let me know.