The Gleditsia tree, also known as the Honey Locust, features graceful, feather-like foliage without thorns, making it a charming and safe addition to any landscape. Its fine leaves and adaptability create a visually appealing and low-maintenance choice for outdoor spaces.
Planting Calendar
Gleditsia can be planted throughout the year but grow best when planted in spring and autumn, giving it time to establish its roots before the heat of summer.
Prepare
A graceful deciduous tree, great for the home garden to provide shade or large open spaces. Leaves pop out in spring in various shades of gold, green or burgundy. Gleditsia is a relatively fast growing tree that can reach 5m.
Position
Gleditsia does best when planted in full sun to light shade, with some protection from strong winds.
Soil
When planted into the ground Gleditsia prefer a free-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. To improve the organic content in your soil, break up the soil and add Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together well.
Plant
When planting into the ground, ensure the plants is well watered then, gently tap the plant out of its pot. Dig a hole twice the depth and width of the plant’s root ball. Mix Kings Compost into your existing soil at a 50/50 ratio, add Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together. Backfill the hole with this soil, so that when planted the top of the plant’s roots sit level with the surrounding ground. Stake well with a hardwood stake to protect young roots and to keep the trunk straight. Firm the soil down gently and water in well with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster. In heavier clay soils, where drainage is likely to be an issue, plant onto a raised mound and sprinkle Gypsum Clay Breaker into the bottom of the hole, this helps slowly condition the soil and help to break down the clay.
Care
Watering
Watering is essential especially in the first year of planting to allow the roots to get well established. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil, aiming to keep the soil moist during hot periods. Add Saturaid into the soil at planting time, as this helps to channel water down to the roots where it is needed the most.
Feeding
For strong healthy roots and plants, apply monthly applications of Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster, from spring through to the end of autumn, this encourages root growth and increases the microbial activity in the soil.
Protecting
Seal all pruning cuts or broken branches with pruning paste to protect against Borer.
Mulching
Mulching around plants can help conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed growth. Mulch around the base of the plants (making sure it is not in direct contact with the trunk or base of the plant) with Living Earth More than Mulch. Replenish mulch each spring.
Pruning
Prune in winter to manage size and shape.
General Care
When using sprays, chemicals or fertilisers always read the label and follow the instructions carefully. Apply sprays in the evening to avoid harming beneficial insects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Gleditsia tree?
Gleditsia, commonly known as Honey Locust, is a deciduous tree known for its fern-like leaves, which provide dappled shade. It’s a popular choice for urban gardens and streetscapes.
How often should I water my Gleditsia tree?
Watering is essential especially in the first year of planting to allow the roots to get well established. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil, aiming to keep the soil moist during hot periods. Add Saturaid into the soil at planting time, as this helps to channel water down to the roots where it is needed the most.
Do Gleditsia trees require pruning?
Prune in winter to manage size and shape.
How fast do Gleditsia trees grow?
Gleditsia trees have a moderate to fast growth rate, typically adding 30 to 60 centimetres per year under optimal conditions. This makes them a great choice for quickly establishing shade and structure in your garden.
Are Gleditsia trees susceptible to pests or diseases?
Gleditsia trees are generally hardy and resistant to most pests and diseases. However, they can occasionally suffer from aphids or fungal infections, which can be managed with appropriate treatments.