St Peters RC Church Hamilton

Topiary texture, topiary shape,

Lets imagination freely escape!

Neat little evergreens ever look lovely,

But for winter style, bring on the topiary.

Variegated box edged in cream

Was a sunny summer’s dream.

Hardy ‘Ilex aquifolium’ the ever shiny holly,

Is a topiary treat being so glossy,

With scarlet berries adding a focus.

No wonder it is a favourite always at Christmas.

Viburnum ‘Tinus’ of growth which is tight,

With pink buds, white flowers is a spring sight.

Another holly ‘Golden King’ with yellow edge

Is perfect for trimming into a hedge.

Solid blocks of leafy colour,

Gold, green or variegated, brighten dull weather.

Small of leaf, clipped into an intricate shape

Topiary is an all year round garden escape,

An ancient art of 2000 years,

All you need is a pair of sharp shears

And plenty of thoughtful imagination

To make of topiary an interesting creation.

This may be clever, a carefully cut beauty,

Although many like topiary clipped to be funny.

Cones, pyramids, spheres and balls,

For any shape imaginary topiary calls.

Golden foliage, feathery, fancy combine,

Clipped into spirals or pompoms to look just fine.

Silvery plants an eye catcher in summer

Still stand out in the cold of winter.

For whatever colour or shape the topiary

It never looks better than when it is frosty.

Grasses blue show up well in winter light

Always making a stunning sight.

But still a reality remains for topiary,

When wintery it is a most special beauty.

Lord, thank You for the beauty of topiary shapes. Thank You too for the skill of gardeners who share Your creativity in such a striking way. All topiary is eye-catching. You made it to be! But especially in winter,

when frosty, the sight is truly stunning. Amen.