How To Espalier An Apple Tree

November 08, 2024 Post a Comment

How to espalier an apple tree

It generally takes five to seven years to create a completed espalier structure and harvest fruit. Until that time, prune out any developing fruit. Your goal in the first few years is to encourage the tree to put all of its energy into growing branches that establish the basic framework.

Which apple tree is best for espalier?

Espalier Apple Tree Varieties While any apple can be espaliered, for a horizontal cordon system, choose a dwarf or semi-dwarf, spur-type apple variety. 'Macintosh' and its many crosses are good choices for the horizontal cordon system because their branches tend to grow horizontally already.

Why do people espalier apple trees?

Apple and pear trees are the traditional espalier subject because their spurs live for years producing fruit (although certain cultivars are better than others) and they have supple, easily trained new growth, but other fruit trees that sometimes are espaliered include fig (Ficus carica), peaches, cherries and

How do you train an espalier tree?

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Can you train any apple tree to espalier?

Espalier training is suitable for apples that are spur bearing and on dwarf or semi-dwarfing rootstocks MM106, M26, MM111. These rootstocks are vigorous enough for the tree to grow long branches and reach the correct height, while keeping relatively compact so you don't have too much pruning to do.

How far apart should espalier branches be?

The space between each branch is 16 inches. This spacing may look too wide when the plant is young, but it fills in quickly as the tree matures.

Do espalier trees need a wall?

Espaliers need to be trained to a wall or on wires fixed to posts. The posts need to be secured in the ground.

How far apart are espalier posts?

Espalier systems and wire spacing. The number of wires is determined by the height and number of tiers. As a starting point, 30-40cm apart would be a reasonable spacing. For a 4 wire spacing, 40cm would reach 1.6m high, while a 5 wire spacing at 35cm apart would reach 1.75m high.

What do you tie espalier with?

Rubber Plant Ties 50-pack Ideal for fixing a branch to bamboo or an espalier wire. Soft, flexible rubber so they dont bite into the branch. Easy to apply, easy to remove, UV stable so will last for years. They do have some stretch in them to allow for branch growth, but should be adjusted every year.

What espalier is best?

As a general rule, woody trees are the most suitable for espaliering. Traditionally fruit trees of the citrus, apple and pear varieties have been a popular choices as their stems are hardy and unwanted growth is easier to remove.

How close to a fence can you plant an apple tree?

Semi-dwarf trees grow to between 12 and 15 feet tall and wide, so give them 15 feet of space between each tree. Dwarf apple trees generally grow to between eight and 10 feet tall with a similar spread. They're happy to have about 10 feet separating them from surrounding apples, buildings, and fences.

How do you support an espalier tree?

In espalier, tree branches are typically trained flat along the wires of a trellis, which may be of several types, depending on how difficult an espalier project you want to attempt. In addition to a trellis, trees can be supported by a wall, wooden fence, or deer or cattle fencing.

When should I start espalier?

It's best to espalier when a fruit tree is in its first or second year. Older, more mature trees are difficult to train and shape. It can take up to three years to bend mature branches. Whether on young or older trees, espalier pruning can take 5-10 years to reach a finished design.

How do you set up an espalier?

To espalier, prune to create a main vertical stem, then train the side branches to achieve the desired shape. Depending on the plant, this can take a year or two to establish and requires regular care. Thereafter, an espalier requires only light pruning to hold its shape.

How do you espalier on a trellis?

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Which direction should an espalier face?

If you are installing posts in the open, ideally they should run north-south, so that the espalier trees face east-west. The structure has to ensure good support that lasts over the years.

Do espalier apple trees need full sun?

Site – Fruit trees need full sun, at least 6 hours a day. Espaliers can fit in narrow spaces, but need plenty of light. Soil – Well-drained moist soil is best for most fruit trees.

What is the difference between espalier and cordon?

The main difference between cordon and esaplier training is that cordon training involves training the tree in one upright direction on a single stem, whereas espalier training means training the tree branches outwards in a horizontal direction.

When should I train my espalier apple tree?

Trees should be pruned annually as growth slows down in August. Renovation pruning for restricted forms of apples and pears should be started in the winter, followed by summer pruning the following year. In order to reduce over-vigorous regrowth, it should be carried out over 1-2 years.

Can you grow espalier in pots?

Potted apple tree pruned to a vase shaped bush. Fruit trees really prefer to be planted in the ground, but in some situations it would be great to have them in pots. Although you wont get the yield or size of fruit, dwarfing fruit trees will do well either as a espalier or open tree in pots.