Whatever the image in your head, topiary is a rewarding hobby if you have a space and a little patience.

The Plants - The first step is to get the right plant. Every plant can be cut and trimmed, but some don't do well with it and might just kick the bucket after a good cut and blow. Junipers, other conifers, hollies, rosemary, and yew are the most popular.

Pick a small specimen of whatever you've chosen. Not only will it acclimatise quicker, but they also tend to grow faster, too, meaning you can get to the cutting, sooner.

The Equipment You'll Need - First of all, a good pair of shears or hand pruners is necessary. Scissors also come in handy.

Clipping - One rule which is hard and fast; do not clip when there's a hint of frost. Especially on more established trees, where frost on an exposed end could mean 5 years work down the drain. May to september are the optimal times. Little and often is the best way. As has been said of many things, you can cut more off, but you can't put it back on.

Shapes - As for the shape, that's up to you. Simple, geometric shapes are best for beginners as they are easiest to cut, but you can let your imagination run wild. If you want a six foot tall mickey mouse in the garden, then who are we to tell you not to have one?

The most popular shapes for topiary are pom-pom, poodle-tier, and cones - these are simple. Animal forms, spirals, and others are a bit more difficult - you'll need a good eye. Here's some ideas:

Cones

Spirals

Poodle Tier

Pyramids

Cubes

Animal Forms

Standard - Single Ball