Pleached Trees: A Guide for Beginners
What is a Pleached Tree?
A pleached tree is a tree with a single trunk and a canopy of branches that have been trained to grow horizontally. This creates a flat, living screen that can be used to divide spaces, create privacy, or add a touch of formality to a garden.
Benefits of Pleached Trees
- Create privacy screens
- Divide spaces in a garden
- Add a formal touch
- Provide habitat for birds and wildlife
- Can be grown in small spaces
How to Choose the Right Pleached Tree
The best type of tree for pleaching depends on the effect you want to achieve. Evergreen trees will create a solid screen all year round, while deciduous trees will lose their leaves in autumn, allowing winter light to filter through.
Some good trees for pleaching include:
- Red-twigged lime
- Hornbeam
- Crab apple Everest
- Photinia ‘Red Robin’
- Cherry laurel
How to Plant and Care for Pleached Trees
Pleached trees should be planted in well-drained soil in a sunny spot. Water them regularly, especially during the first year after planting. Fertilize them annually in spring.
To keep your pleached trees looking their best, prune them regularly to maintain their shape and size. You should also remove any dead or diseased branches.
How to Pleach a Tree Yourself
You can pleach a tree yourself by following these steps:
- Create a framework of stakes and wires or bamboo canes.
- Plant a young tree next to each stake.
- Tie the leader (central shoot) and lateral branches to the frame.
- As the tree grows, continue to tie the branches horizontally to the frame.
- After 5 years, the tree should be fully established and you can remove the framework.
Troubleshooting
Pleached trees are generally low-maintenance, but there are a few problems that you may encounter:
- Pests and diseases: Pleached trees are not particularly susceptible to pests and diseases, but they can be affected by the same problems that affect other trees.
- Wind damage: Pleached trees can be damaged by strong winds, so it is important to stake them securely.
- Overgrowth: If you do not prune your pleached trees regularly, they will become overgrown and lose their shape.
Conclusion
Pleached trees are a beautiful and versatile addition to any garden. They can be used to create privacy screens, divide spaces, or add a touch of formality. With proper care and maintenance, your pleached trees will thrive for many years to come.