Topiaries indoors during the winter.

Q: Is it necessary to bring topiaries indoors during the winter (snow) season in Michigan? I want to make a large topiary from moss and ivy but need to learn more.

A: In most cases, moss filled ivy topiary would need to be protected over the winter months in your area. The ivy roots should not freeze during winter, they can take frost and they like it cool but freezing for long periods is not recommended. It is best to over-winter them in a cool bright spot. They need good air circulation and proper watering during their indoor stay. Often, our homes are too dark, too hot and have very poor air circulation during the winter. If you can compensate for these important elements, your topiary should do okay. However, a cool greenhouse would be best.

Topiaries indoors during the winter.

Q: I am making some topiaries (trained on wire) and they are pretty big. I've had trouble wintering topiaries in the house (spider mite) and would like to over winter 'outside'. I live in Kansas City (Zone 6). Should I keep my topiaries outside mulched in an unheated cold frame with my
bonsai, or should I use an unheated sunporch which is a wee bit warmer?

A: Spider mites can be a real problem in the house when it is hot dry and dark. They love that environment. I A cold (not freezing) shower regularly to wash off and discourage insects.

Your ivy topiary would winter over in either situation. The most important thing is do not want the roots to freeze. The ivies can take it pretty cold as low as 34-36 degrees. You should be very successful with the unheated sun porch as long as it does not go below freezing and stay that way for very many hours. Why not use the sun porch and try one in the cold frame?

Winter Protection for Topiary

Q: I am hopeful you can help; last winter I purchased three- 5-foot hardy ivy topiaries from my local market. I kept them inside last winter. This spring they were moved outside and did well. Now it's December and I am wondering if I can keep them outside if I place them in an area where they would get morning sun and protection from the winds. I live in Rochester,
New York. We have had a few hard frosts and the ivy seems to be fine.

If I can leave them outside should I water them when I move them to the protected area.

Cold Topiary in Rochester, NY

A: Ivy can be hardy if planted into the ground although you may get winter damage or even death when the weather turns harsh. You will need to protect the topiary through the coldest part of winter. Since the roots are in a pot and not planted into the soil, the roots will freeze quickly. In the past, we have suggested that container ivies in the cold climates should be insulated in some way.

You could insulate by using bales of straw or even mulching with several layers of leaves. Going to the other extreme, some people have built insulated planter boxes using waterproof insulation materials.

If the winds are freezing and harsh wrap the ivy in burlap. You can actually leave the burlap on for a few weeks or during the coldest month.