Caring for London Plane

London plane is a low-maintenance tree once established, tolerating drought, pollution, and compacted urban soils better than most large trees. Water young trees regularly during their first two summers, applying 20 to 30 litres weekly in dry weather. Established trees are remarkably drought-tolerant and rarely need supplementary watering except during prolonged dry spells. Feed in March or April by applying a balanced slow-release fertiliser such as blood, fish, and bone or a general tree and shrub feed around the root zone. Scatter roughly 100 grams per square metre and lightly fork into the soil surface, then water in. Mulch annually with well-rotted compost or bark chips to suppress weeds, retain moisture, and gradually improve soil structure. Keep mulch 10 cm clear of the trunk. London plane is fully hardy across zones 5a to 9b and needs no winter protection. The tree flowers in spring with inconspicuous green blooms, followed by spherical seed balls that hang in clusters through winter. These can create litter but are harmless; rake up if they become a nuisance on paths. Common problems include plane anthracnose, a fungal disease causing leaf browning and twig dieback in cool, wet springs. Rake and dispose of fallen leaves to reduce spore carryload. Powdery mildew occasionally affects foliage in late summer but rarely harms overall health. Aphids may colonise young shoots; natural predators usually keep numbers in check. The tree's peeling bark is a natural characteristic, not a sign of disease, and contributes to its ornamental appeal year-round.