How to Espalier a Peach Tree

Peach trees left to grow on their own do not have a particular pattern.

Espalier refers to a gardening technique that trains a tree to grow as if it were a climbing plant, flat against a wall or trellis. You can train many different varieties of tree in this method and, according to Mississippi State University, peach trees do well when trained to espalier. You can either choose a formal design to espalier your peach tree or you can go with a more free-form pattern. The art of espalier requires a great deal of patience and time to reach your ultimate goal.

Things You'll Need

• Young peach tree
• Trellis or wall
• Nails
• Garden twine
• Pruning shears
• Fertilizer

Instructions

1. Plant your peach tree up to 8 inches away from a wall or trellis. The trellis is most convenient for the home gardener, but you can also use nails in a supporting wall to serve as anchors for the branches. Remove any debris around the intended location and make sure the soil is hospitable for planting.

2. Carefully bend your peach tree's branches into the position you wish them to grow. Tie them into place with garden twine. Tie the branches loosely to give the tree room to grow. Older branches can break, so this is easiest to do when dealing with a young peach tree. If you cannot get the branch exactly where you want it, tie it temporarily and allow the tree to adjust for a few weeks before moving the branch again.

3. Prune any limbs that do not match up with your intended design. Especially trim any branches that are growing out from the tree. If you are not using a pattern or design, tie the branches in any position that appeals to you. Because espalier is a flat training method, however, the branches should not cross or grow outward from the peach tree.

4. Fertilize your peach tree every season to encourage your tree to grow quickly. Use a 12-4-8 blend or 16-4-8 blend; either are standard fertilizers you can find at home improvement or garden supply stores. Use 1 lb. of fertilizer for every 100 square feet you are fertilizing. After your peach tree reaches the pattern you are trying to create, begin fertilizing in spring and fall only.

5. Prune your peach tree as it grows. Remove any stray branches that do not fit your design.

6. Add new ties as the peach tree grows. Check older ties to be sure they are not in the way of the tree's growth.

References

• Oregon State University: Espalier Training of Fruit Trees is Fun, but Demanding
• University of Florida IFAS Extension: Espaliers
• Mississippi State University Extension Service: Espalier Shrubs and Trees