Pleach
Verb
- Entwine or interlace (tree branches) to form a hedge or provide cover for an outdoor walkway.
Example Sentences
“Winter is the optimal time for pleaching your trees.”
“The trees were pleached to create a romantic walkway in the garden.”
“If you pleach the tree branches, they will provide more shade.”
Word Origin
Old French, late 14th century
Why this word?
The practice of pleaching is a technique involving tree branches. The term comes from the Old French verb “plaissier,” which is based on the Latin verb “plectere,” meaning “to plait.” The most commonly used tree for pleached walkways is the Tilia (lime) tree. For this technique, the trees are planted in lines and the branches are woven together to strengthen and fill a structure, making for a romantic, shady corridor. This type of gardening originated in medieval times and was a popular practice until the early 18th century.