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Rosemary Topiary Guide: How to Make a Rosemary Topiary

Written by MasterClass

Last updated: Nov 23, 2021 • 1 min read

Learn how to cultivate DIY rosemary topiaries to level up your houseplant collection or make for thoughtful holiday gifts.

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What Is a Rosemary Topiary?

Rosemary is an evergreen herb that has soft, needle-like leaves. They produce a strong, herbaceous aroma similar to lavender. Rosemary plants have a dense growth habit, making them the perfect specimen for shaping into a topiary. Rosemary topiaries are made by trimming an upright rosemary plant with pruning shears until it resembles your desired shape. It's common to find rosemary topiary trees in outdoor gardens trimmed into a ball shape. An indoor rosemary topiary can add a little greenery to your home decor.

How to Make a Rosemary Plant Into a Topiary

Follow these pruning and gardening tips to make your own DIY rosemary topiary.

  1. 1. Choose your rosemary plant. There are two basic varieties of rosemary plants: upright and ground-cover. Choose an upright variety, such as the ‘Tuscan Blue’ cultivar, for this project. Make sure your rosemary plant is potted in well-draining, organic potting soil in a clay pot with drainage holes.
  2. 2. Gather your materials. Once you have your plant, you'll need to grab a wire frame, twine, and pruning shears. Material for a metal frame can be found at most garden centers, or you can make your own using a wire hanger.
  3. 3. Attach some branches to the frame. If you’re trimming your rosemary into a tree or ball shape, simply use the pruning shears and trim to your liking. If you want to make a wreath shape, separate the plant into two main branches. Attach the branches to the round metal frame using the twine. Use your pruning shears to remove off-shoots. Trimmings can be kept, washed, and used in recipes.
  4. 4. Care for your topiary. Now that your topiary’s shape is complete, it's time to give it a proper home. Place your rosemary topiary in an area of your home that receives full sun and good air circulation. Tie down or prune new growth as it appears. Water your plant only when the top two inches of potting soil are dry. Overwatering can cause root rot, fungal disease, and pest infestations. In the summer, move your topiary to your outdoor herb garden.

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Grow your own garden with Ron Finley, the self-described "Gangster Gardener." Get the MasterClass Annual Membership and learn how to cultivate fresh herbs and vegetables, keep your house plants alive, and use compost to make your community—and the world—a better place.