Training and Pruning Espalier Trees for Delicious Apples and Pears

Espalier trees, with their horizontally arranged branches trained along a sturdy framework, are not only space-efficient and fruitful but also visually appealing. In this guide, you’ll discover how to properly prune young trees to shape them into espaliers and how to maintain established ones to ensure they remain healthy and productive.

What is an Espalier Tree?

An espalier tree is a fruit tree that is trained to grow flat against a support structure, such as a wall or fence. It features a central vertical trunk with several tiers of horizontal branches. Proper pruning and training techniques are essential for their care:

– Initial Pruning: After planting, targeted winter cuts help establish the layer structure.
– Annual Care: Summer and winter prunings maintain the tree’s form and productivity.
– Space-Saving: Espalier trees typically reach a height of 1.8 meters and can spread up to 4.5 meters wide.

Why Choose Espalier Trees?

Espalier trees provide numerous benefits:

– Attractive Design: They are perfect for sunny walls and fences, enhancing the garden’s aesthetic.
– Efficient Space Use: Ideal for small gardens where maximizing space is crucial.
– Long-lasting Yields: With proper care, they can produce abundant fruit for many years.

When Should You Prune Espalier Trees?

– Winter to Spring: Ideal for establishing new tiers or making renovation cuts.
– Late Summer: For maintaining established espaliers and controlling growth.
– Dormant Season: Perform significant renovation cuts during winter.

Building an Espalier from Scratch

Step 1: Selection and Planting

Start with a one-year-old tree, known as a “maiden,” and set up a stable framework with horizontal wires spaced 35–45 cm apart. Position the lowest wire 40 cm above the ground.

Post-Planting Pruning: Cut the trunk 5–7 cm above the first wire to encourage strong lateral shoots.

Spring and Summer Training: Guide the new vertical shoot upwards using a bamboo stake and tie two strong lateral shoots to the wires at about a 40° angle. In late summer, these branches will be positioned horizontally.

Step 2: Establishing New Tiers

Winter Pruning: Trim the main vertical shoot 5 cm above the next wire to promote new lateral shoots for the next tier.

Training: Repeat the process until you achieve the desired number of tiers.

Caring for Established Espaliers

Summer Routine

– Shorten Lateral Shoots: Trim new lateral shoots to three or four leaves above their base.
– Remove Upright Shoots: Completely eliminate overly vigorous, upright growth.

Renovation Pruning

After several years, fruit spurs may become too dense:

– Thinning Fruit Spurs: Remove older or redundant fruit spurs during winter.
– Shorten Long Laterals: Cut back excessively long shoots to 3–5 cm to maintain the tree’s form.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do my trees shoot out again after summer pruning?

There are two possible reasons:

– Pruning Too Early: Wait until the terminal buds are fully formed, generally around August.
– Growth-Favorable Weather: Warm and humid weather can necessitate a second pruning in September.

Can I grow partial-tip carriers as espaliers?

Yes, but they require different care. Leave a few shorter shoots each year, as these often develop fruit buds at their tips.

Espalier trees are a stunning blend of utility and elegance. With patience and the right care, you can enjoy healthy and productive fruit trees for many years to come. Happy gardening! 🌸🌿