Pleaching and espalier are both techniques used in gardening and landscaping to train trees and shrubs into specific shapes and patterns. While they have similarities, there are several key differences between the two.
1. Purpose:
Pleaching is primarily used to create a solid barrier or living fence by intertwining the branches of multiple trees or shrubs. This technique involves planting the trees in a row and then training and weaving their branches together, resulting in a dense and continuous wall of foliage. On the other hand, espalier focuses more on showcasing the structure of the branches and creating decorative patterns against a wall or structure. It involves training the branches to grow in a flat, two-dimensional plane, often with horizontal tiers or vertical columns.
2. Spacing and Structure:
In pleaching, the trees or shrubs are typically planted quite close together, allowing their branches to easily intertwine. This creates a solid, impenetrable barrier of foliage. In contrast, espaliered trees or shrubs are usually spaced further apart, allowing for more space between the rows of branches. This emphasizes the individual branches and their patterns, rather than creating a dense wall of foliage.
3. Techniques:
Pleaching involves carefully selecting and planting trees or shrubs with flexible branches that can be easily trained and woven together. The branches are then tied or secured to encourage them to grow in the desired direction and form a unified structure. Regular pruning and maintenance are required to maintain the pleached form and keep the growth in check.
Espalier, on the other hand, requires attaching the branches to a support structure, such as a trellis or wires, using ties or clips. The branches are trained to grow along the structure, with regular pruning to maintain the desired shape. The specific patterns and shapes can vary widely, including horizontal tiers, vertical columns, fan shapes, or intricate designs.
4. Aesthetics:
Pleaching creates a solid, uniform wall of foliage, which can provide privacy, block views, or act as a windbreak. It offers a more traditional and formal appearance, and the dense foliage can also provide shade. Espalier, on the other hand, is more about showcasing the natural beauty of the tree or shrub’s branches. It highlights the structure and form of the plant, creating an artistic and decorative element in the garden or against a wall.
While both pleaching and espalier involve training trees or shrubs into specific shapes, they differ in purpose, spacing, techniques, and aesthetics. Pleaching creates a solid barrier of leaves, perfect for privacy and wind protection, while espalier emphasizes the structure of the branches, leaving more space between rows and creating an artistic display. Both techniques require regular maintenance and pruning to maintain their desired form and shape.
