How to Trim and Keep the Shape of an Ehretia Ball, Cone, Wall, Spiral or Door
By Muhammad Hamza · Published · Updated
Ehretia has small, glossy leaves and takes clipping well. That is why it is grown into balls, cones, walls, spirals and arches. Our nursery cuts its plants weekly, and a light weekly trim at home keeps the shape tight and full.
The basic rule
Trim a little, often. Follow the outline the plant already has and take off only the new growth that sticks out. Small weekly cuts keep the shape sharper than one heavy cut every few months.
By shape
- Ball: turn the plant as you trim and keep the curve even all the way around.
- Cone: work from the base up so the lower branches keep their light and the cone stays full to the ground.
- Wall: keep the top level and the faces flat. Check from the side as well as the front.
- Spiral: follow the spiral lines and keep the gaps between turns clear.
- Door: trim both sides evenly and keep the arch curve smooth.
Good habits
- Use clean, sharp tools.
- Trim a plant that is healthy and well watered. See the watering guide.
- Keep the plant in full sun so growth stays even on every side.
How long until a shape is ready?
From a young plant to the finished shape, our nursery takes about 5 to 6 months. Read how long a shape takes to grow.
Ehretia Wall, 60 x 75 to 100 x 100 cm
An Ehretia wall is a flat, clipped panel of Ehretia microphylla grown in a trough on a wire frame. Panels come in five sizes, from 60 x 75 to 100 x 100 cm (height x width), and can be placed side by side to divide a space or hide a wall. Delivery takes 2 to 3 days.