What is "pleaching"?

[stephen fitzgerald]

Pleaching is one of the topiary type arts. It is when trees are grown 
close together and trained, cut or hedged in such a way as to make a 
continuous canopy. Its similar to a hedge only the trunks are bare up to 
the canopy allowing a view through to other parts of the garden. 
Traditionaly done with Limes (Tilia cordata) but a similar thing can be 
done with Hornbeams (Carpinus betulus). If you live in the UK then you 
will probably see some fine examples in some of the great historic 
gardens. Send me a photo ;)

Stephen Fitzgerald

(Australia)