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| Robinia pseudoacacia
Black locustCulture: This extremely tolerant species is adaptable to all soils except those that are extremely wet. If pruned, it should be done in late summer or fall to prevent "bleeding." Canker, locust borer, and twig borer are killers of this species. Borer activity is ready evidenced by the presence of numerous holes. This species also suffers from storm damage due to its narrow weak branch angles. Other minor problems include powdery mildew, witches broom, scales, and leaf miners. Usage: The spring beauty of this tree makes it seem to be desireable, but its unkempt habit and prolific seeding throughout the rest of the year make it less of a "find." Many landscape architects are using the black locust (rather successfully so far) in the reclamation of strip mined lands (the nitrogen-fixing properties of this plant help restore the soil). Others use it rather extensively along highways -- I remember seeing rows 200 yards long and greater along the freeways south of Chicago. |
