Platanus acerifolia (Ait.) Willd.
Platanus acerifolia, also known as London Plane Tree or London Planetree, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the family Platanaceae. It is a hybrid species obtained by crossing Platanus orientalis and Platanus occidentalis. The origin of this plant is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in Asia Minor and spread throughout the Mediterranean, ultimately making its way to London in the 17th century.
The London Plane Tree is a popular street tree due to its ability to tolerate pollution, drought, and pruning. It is also commonly used in parks and gardens as a shade tree. The tree's bark is smooth and green when it is young, but becomes rough and flaky with age, revealing a white, cream, and green mottled surface underneath. The leaves are large and maple-like, with five lobes, and can grow up to 20cm in length.
The London Plane Tree offers various benefits, including providing shade for people and animals, reducing air pollution, and helping to prevent soil erosion. The tree also has cultural significance, with some specimens in London dating back to the 1700s and serving as landmarks and historical symbols.
Light Requirements
Platanus acerifolia requires full sunlight exposure for optimum growth. It can tolerate partial shade but grows more slowly and produces fewer leaves in shaded areas.
Temperature Requirements
Platanus acerifolia is a hardy tree species that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. The ideal temperature for growth is between 20-30°C. Temperatures above 35°C can lead to heat stress, while prolonged exposure to temperatures below 0°C can damage the tree's tissue.
Soil Requirements
Platanus acerifolia grows well in a range of well-drained soils, but it prefers moist, fertile, and slightly acidic soils. The tree can tolerate soil pH in the range of 5.5-7.5. The soil should be deep enough to accommodate its large root system, and it should contain adequate nutrients that support healthy growth.
Cultivation methods
Platanus acerifolia is a tree species that originated in the southeastern part of Europe and southwestern Asia, which is commonly known as London plane tree. This tree species grows well in different climatic conditions, including warm and dry summer, cold winter, and high air pollution. It prefers a well-drained soil type, but it can adapt to different soil types as long as it is not water-logged. Platanus acerifolia should be planted in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. The best time to plant Platanus acerifolia tree is in the spring, or early fall.
Watering needs
Platanus acerifolia tree requires regular watering, particularly during the first two years of establishment. The tree prefers moist soil, but it is essential to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Water the tree deeply at least two to three times weekly, especially during hot and dry spells.
Fertilization
Fertilization is an essential aspect of Platanus acerifolia tree care. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring, just before new growth. This will help to stimulate healthy growth and improve the tree's resistance to diseases and pests. However, it is crucial to avoid over-fertilization as it can lead to nutrient imbalance and cause damage to the tree.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the desired size and shape of Platanus acerifolia tree. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before the tree begins new growth. Remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches first, followed by crossed and rubbing branches. It is essential to avoid pruning the tree during the growing season as it can lead to excessive sap loss, which can weaken the tree's growth and increase susceptibility to diseases and pests.
Propagation of Platanus acerifolia (Ait.) Willd.
Propagation of Platanus acerifolia, commonly known as London Plane, can be done through various methods. Some of the popular methods of propagation of this plant are:
Seed Propagation
Seeds can be sown in a well-draining potting mixture in a seed tray or directly into the ground during the autumn season. Stratification of seeds can improve germination rates. The seeds should be watered regularly and kept in a warm location. Once the seedlings reach 3 to 4 inches in height, they can be transplanted to the permanent location.
Cutting Propagation
Platanus acerifolia can also be propagated by taking hardwood cuttings during the dormant season. Cuttings must be prepared with at least two nodes and should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting. Cuttings should be planted in a well-aerated potting mixture with good drainage. Mist the cuttings regularly and protect them from direct sunlight and harsh environmental conditions.
Air layering Propagation
Air layering is another propagation method for Platanus acerifolia. A small incision is made on the stem, and you wrap a ball of moist sphagnum moss around the area. Once the roots develop, you can cut the stem below the new root growth and plant it into warm soil. Air layering is an excellent method for propagating mature, large trees that are difficult to transplant.
Disease and Pest Management for Platanus Acerifolia
Platanus acerifolia (Ait.) Willd. commonly known as London plane or sycamore is an ornamental tree that is widely grown in urban landscapes. However, like all other plants, the tree is vulnerable to various pests and diseases that must be managed to ensure its survival and aesthetics. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the tree and their management.
Diseases
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes leaf spotting, defoliation, and twig dieback. The disease is prevalent in cool and wet weather, and it affects new leaves and shoots. To manage anthracnose, prune all the infected parts of the tree, use a fungicide before the onset of new leaves and shoots, and ensure proper sanitation practices.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes yellow-brown spots on leaves, which turn black over time. The disease can cause defoliation and weaken the tree. To manage leaf spot, prune all infected parts of the tree, use a fungicide before the onset of new leaves and shoots, and ensure proper sanitation practices.
Verticillium wilt: Verticillium wilt is a fungal disease that causes yellowing of the leaves, wilting, and branch dieback. The disease affects the vascular system of the tree and can cause death if not managed early. To manage verticillium wilt, remove all infected parts of the tree, ensure proper sanitation practices, and use a fungicide to control the disease.
Pests
Scale insects: Scale insects are small, sap-sucking insects that affect the leaves and twigs of the tree. They cause yellowing of leaves, premature leaf drop, and can also lead to the development of sooty mold. To manage scale insects, prune all infected parts of the tree, use insecticides such as neem oil or horticultural oil, and encourage the natural predators of scale insects.
Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that feed on the sap of the tree. They cause deformed leaves, yellowing, and stunted growth. To manage aphids, prune all infected parts of the tree, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and encourage the natural predators of aphids.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies, and they feed on the leaves of the tree. They cause defoliation, stunted growth, and weaken the tree. To manage caterpillars, prune all infected parts of the tree, use a Bacillus thuringiensis-based insecticide, and encourage the natural predators of caterpillars.
By managing the diseases and pests that affect Platanus acerifolia, the tree will remain healthy, and its aesthetic value will be preserved. It is important to follow proper sanitation practices, prune infected parts of the tree, and use the appropriate insecticides/fungicides to manage pests and diseases.
