Forum home Fruit & veg
This Forum will close on Wednesday 27 March, 2024. Please refer to the announcement on the Discussions page for further detail.

Espalier apple and pear trees

I am hoping that some of you might be able to provide me some advice and guidance on the art of espalier. 

I am new to gardening and have been gifted two new trees to plant in my new garden Here in the Netherlands. I have been looking for a while now and feel I understand the basic Idea and principles behind espalier but am slightly nervous about the actual implementation of what I see and have read. i certainly do not want to cut the wrong branch in the wrong spot and ruin the growth of the tree!!

i am looking for advice on my two plants one is an apple tree and the other is a pear tree both of which were recent gifts. Below I have attached photos of each. 

The wiring and idea behind espalier I understand but would very much appreciate specific cutting techniques and guide such as where on my plant to trim, when and how. 

Anyone who has done this previously I request your assistance and guidance and maybe specific points from the photos I have attached. 

Currently the plants are standing in their pots and will be planted and guided against a timber fence which faces south. 

imageimage

Posts

  • WaysideWayside Posts: 845

    Ids would help.  The pear looks decorative.

  • Thank you very much for taking the time to respond to my call for help!! 

    Your message has now allowes me to build a guiding system connected to mt fence that will support as well as provide air circulation. 

    However i do have a couple of question I hope you might be able to help me with. 

    Firstly, I am really worried about the cutting part and how and when to do so. Currently I have selected my two side beanches along with my upwards growth so does that mean I now remove any other major growth that is currently on the tree? as you said don't be afraid to cut things of however you also said pruning won't happen for a few more years yet. Can I cut unwanted growths and branches off now? 

    Secondly, how do I find out if my tree is a tip bearer or stem? 

    I have also got answer to your questions as well, 

    i have a malus domestica " red jonagold" and a pyrus salici pendula.

    i am aware of three other apple trees growing in the street is this close enough for cross pollination? 

Sign In or Register to comment.