# How to Trim Ivy Topiary Trees
Ivy topiary trees are common living works of art used both indoors and outdoors. Gardeners must maintain the plant with regular watering, fertilizing and trimming. Trimming back some of the ivy leaves helps keep the shape, encourages dense growth and removes unhealthy leaves. Removing or trimming any leaves that infected any disease prevents harmful pathogens from spreading to the rest of the ivy topiary.
Things You'll Need
- Bonsai shears
- Denatured alcohol
- Towel
- Hairpin
- Fertilizer
- Sheer curtain
Instructions
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Dipping a pair of bonsai shears into a mixture of 70 percent denatured alcohol and 30 percent water sterilizes the pruning tool. Wipe off the shears with a towel.
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Trim any leaves that look diseased. Signs of diseased leaves includes discoloration, browning, curling or fungal growth. When making trimming cuts, make it right next to the ivy vine.
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Pinch off any dead foliage using your thumb and index finger.
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Prune any areas of dense growth or where leaves unbalance the tree’s top.
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Secure any ivy vines growing away from the topiary with a hairpin. Avoid girdling the vine by securing the vine too tight back to the topiary.
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Next:
Plant Basics
