# How to Shape a Buxus
The buxus or boxwood shrub is known for its use in formal gardens and topiary designs. The buxus deals well with being shaped in all manner of forms, as long as it is kept tidy and pruned to relieve any high density of branches within the shrub. Once the buxus has achieved the size needed for the desired shape, you can cut details into this slow-growing hedge. Popular shapes include spheres and teardrops, but people have cut their buxus into spirals, flower shapes and even animals.
Things You'll Need
- Sharp pruning shears
- Gloves
Instructions
-
-
1
Allow the shrub to grow until it reaches a size slightly larger than the desired shape. Perform regular pruning as the bush grows.
-
2
Shape with pruning sheers in mid-summer directly following a regular pruning.
-
3
Take into account leaf access to sunlight. Do not choose a shape that is too top-heavy, thereby shading lower leaves, particularly if the plant is still young.
-
4
Use your pruning shears to sculpt a shape into the bush, snipping a minimum amount off each branch.
-
1
