black locust

Black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia 'Lace Lady' TWISTY BABY) is a low-maintenance deciduous shrub that requires minimal watering once established. To get it established, water at least once or twice a week for at least the first year. After that, water only when the soil is dry to the touch, usually 1-2 times a month during spring and summer when the shrub is actively growing. Water deeply and thoroughly, saturating the root zone. If you're not sure if it needs water, probe your finger a few inches into the soil to check for moisture. Watering once a week is recommended during periods of prolonged drought or very hot weather. Reduce watering frequency in the fall and winter months.

Black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia ‘Lace Lady' Twisty Baby) grows best in full sun, meaning it needs at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day in order to thrive. During the summer months, this plant will benefit from up to 10 hours of direct sunlight, but some afternoon shade is appreciated during the hottest parts of the day, usually between 12pm-3pm. During the spring and fall seasons, this plant can tolerate some filtered sunlight and still remain healthy. Planting in an area with larger trees that create dappled shade will provide adequate light while mitigating the impact of the hot midday sun. In wintertime, the amount of sunlight will depend on the location of the plant and time of year; in areas with less than 12 hours of daylight, the plant will naturally get less exposure. In areas with more than 12 hours of daylight, the plant should receive the full amount of sunlight recommended for growing season.

Pruning for a black locust of the type Robinia pseudoacacia 'Lace Lady' Twisty Baby should be done when the tree is between 2 and 3 years of age. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before the new growth emerges. Prune the branches to control its habit and remove unwanted branches. Remove about 1-third of the shoots from the previous season's new growth. The resulting structure should be somewhat vase-shaped. After the first year of heavy pruning, prune only when necessary, about 2 or 3 times a year. Remove dead, broken, or diseased branches, as well as those growing in a uniform manner or crossing over other branches. Also remove suckers coming up from the ground at the base of the tree.