Pruning Espalier Apple Trees

Espalier trees produce a bounty of fruit in a small space.

Espalier is a horticultural tradition developed in northern France and southern England during the 16th century, according to the article "Espalier Trees" published in "The Mother Earth News" magazine. Espalier trees can be challenging and slow to grow, taking anywhere from five to 10 years for complete development; however, apple trees are one of the most successful types of tree to train in the espalier style. The advantages of an espalier apple tree may be worth the trouble. Not only are they a striking and unusual addition to the garden or landscape, but the method allows for many fruit trees to be planted in a relatively small space.

Things You'll Need

• Trellis
• Garden tape or ties
• Pruning shears

Instructions

1. Provide a trellis, chain-link fence or rows of 12- to 14-gauge galvanized wire strung horizontally between 4-foot tall posts you have buried on either side of the space where you will plant the apple tree. Space the wire rows 15 to 18 inches apart for a basic Cordon espalier pattern. See the resources section of this article for more information regarding individual espalier patterns.

2. Plant a "one-year whip," or young tree with few or no branches. An article published by "The Mother Earth News" recommends pruning the whip so it looks like an 18- to 24-inch stick. Cut off the low branches to encourage growth of future fruit-bearing lateral branches and wait one year for new growth to emerge.

3. Train the best two or three branches of the espalier apple tree by tying them loosly to the wires or trellis. Bend the shoots as they grow and continue to secure them to your trellis with gardening tape or ties. Check the stems regularly to make certain they aren't being "choked" by tight bindings.

4. Prune out any new branches that are weak, growing forward, crossing over other branches or growing outside of your established pattern. Continue to choose the best new vertical branches to complete your espalier design. Maintain the shape through regular pruning of undesirable growth.

Tips & Warnings

• Espalier fruit trees require a great deal of maintenance to keep their shape and produce fruit. Be prepared to prune your espalier tree several times a year for best results.

References

• Oregon State: Espalier Training of Fruit Trees is Fun, but Demanding
• "The Mother Earth News": Espalier Trees

Resources

• University of Florida: Espaliers