Espalier is training a tree or plant by pruning and tying the branches horizontally to a wire or a frame. The word espalier is French meaning “something to rest the shoulder against.” The tree is pruned to have only branches going from side to side in tiers.
Espaliered trees are decorative but also help where space is limited. By pruning away branches and limbs, the tree receives more sunlight, giving the fruit more time to mature.
Gardeners are very creative in espaliered techniques and designs. If you have visited Mount Vernon, you most likely noticed the paths in the garden lined with espaliered pear trees that look like hedges but bear fruit.
ESPALIER DESIGNS: FANS, CANDELABRA, AND CORDON AND MORE
The fans and candelabra designs are the most elaborate and used as a garden focal point. Often you see the style referred to as cordon, with horizontal tiers, used as a “living fence.” Our blackberries, peaches, and apple trees at Spring Meadows are in the cordon style with three tiers. The cordon style can be designed to fit any space.
TYPES OF TREES SUITED FOR ESPALIER
For best results, look for semi-dwarf and mid-dwarf rootstock. You will begin with a whip (2-to 3-foot sapling) that has no branches and is pliable.