Summer Garden Chores: Pruning the Hedges Around the Pool

Summer outdoor chores are in full swing at Martha Stewart’s farm. A key task this week involved the significant pruning of the hedges that border the pool area. The chosen plantings consist of two striking, dark-leaved varieties: Physocarpus opulifolius ‘Diabolo’ (ninebark) and Cotinus coggygria ‘Royal Purple’ (smokebush). These shrubs were originally planted in 2018 and have thrived in their location ever since, creating a lush, decorative screen around the pool’s perimeter fence.

The pruning is led by the farm’s resident tree expert, Pasang Sherpa. According to the team, some of the shrubs had grown more than two feet since spring, making a trim essential for maintaining both plant health and aesthetic shape. Regular pruning is key to ensuring the shrubs grow fuller each year. Pasang utilizes professional Okatsune hand pruners to carefully remove dead or crisscrossing branches, as well as excess growth, keeping the height of the hedges aligned with the pool fence itself.

Physocarpus, or ninebark, is a resilient deciduous shrub known for its deep burgundy foliage. Beyond its visual appeal, it produces seed pods after blooming, which act as a favorite food source for small birds. It is paired with Cotinus, known for its smooth, rounded leaves and unique flower clusters that provide a billowy, smoky pink appearance during the summer. Both species are medium-to-fast growers, capable of adding over 24 inches in height annually under proper conditions.

The pool area design was intentionally crafted to feel natural, allowing for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. In addition to the hedges, the space features six Ginkgo biloba ‘Goldspire™ Obelisk’ trees, which were added to the site a few years ago. The area is further accented by tropical plants displayed in ornamental urns. Notably, at one end of the pool, there are five antique staddle stones—remnants from the 17th and 18th centuries, originally used as structural supports for granaries and hayricks.

The golden rule for pruning on the farm is to remove all dead, diseased, damaged, or non-productive plant material. By following this practice, the team not only maintains the plants' desired size but also encourages vigorous growth in the right direction. Through this professional care, the hedge combination effectively disguises the pool fence, blending the infrastructure seamlessly into the farm’s broader, carefully manicured landscape.