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The horticultural practice of espalier involves training a fruiting or ornamental tree, shrub or woody vine to grow in a pattern flat against a wall, fence or freestanding frame. Practical and beautiful, espalier is a fantastic way to make the most of a small outdoor space, or hide an unsightly surface.
Landscape designer Brielle Economos of the Economos Group says espalier creates a striking focal point. “It can also transform vertical spaces into an opportunity for a compact and productive orchard,” she says.
An espaliered tree or shrub requires the same light conditions as its regular-growing counterpart. “A full-sun location such as a north-facing wall is ideal for fruiting plants like apple or citrus,” explains Brielle. “A shadier aspect may better suit a camellia or Japanese maple.” Always check the plant label information before buying a tree, to see if it’s suitable for your space.
If planting in the ground, ensure the soil is well-draining and enriched with organic matter. If growing in a pot, espalier specialist Chris England of Merrywood recommends using a large rectangular planter. “This means it sits flat against a wall or fence, whereas a round container protrudes more,” he says.
In cooler climates, an espaliered fruit tree against a wall or fence can be a good idea as the surface absorbs and radiates heat, offering extra warmth and protection. However, in frost-prone zones, additional precautions are necessary. “Use hessian covers when growing citrus, or go for deciduous fruit trees as frost won’t harm them as much,” says Chris.
Almost any tree can be espaliered. “Evergreen and deciduous fruit trees (both regular and dwarf forms) like lemon, lime, apple, fig, pear, olive, and ornamental shrubs and trees like gingko, camellia, magnolia, gardenia, star jasmine and rosemary are all suitable candidates,” says Chris.
“You’ll need a good pair of secateurs, a sturdy structure to secure the branches to – such as a wooden lattice – and soft flexible ties or plant clips,” he advises. If training against a wall or fence, you can construct a framework using heavy-gauge wire.
When choosing a tree, Brielle suggests looking for one that has the growth pattern of an espalier with a good central stem and several evenly spaced horizontal branches. “Alternatively, choose a young plant as they are quite flexible and pliable, and will be easier to train and tie the branches to the frame,” she says.
There are a number of espalier styles, which can be divided into two main types: formal and informal. “A formal design has a central leader with symmetrical growth on either side,” explains Chris. “An informal style simply aims to fill the entire space with branches.” For beginners interested in attempting formal espalier styles, Chris recommends the horizontal cordon, which is characterised by a central stem with horizontal branches every 30-40cm. “It’s a classic shape and also one of the easiest,” he says.
After securing a support structure (such as lattice) in place, plant the tree in the centre of the framework. Loosely tie the trunk to the frame first, then the side branches, and prune excess growth. Water the tree in with diluted seaweed solution to help reduce transplant shock and encourage faster root establishment.
Other formal styles include fan or vase (branches at a 45º angle to the central trunk); Belgian fence (a series of trees trained in a lattice or diamond pattern); and candelabra (branches are trained horizontally, then up).
Whatever shape you choose, pruning is necessary. “It’s important to prune at least twice a year, in summer and again in winter,” says Chris. “Summer pruning should be done two or three times during the season, depending on the growth of the plant. A general tidy is all that is required in winter.”
Learn how to make a stylish wire support for trees and vines.
Photo Credit: Gap Photos/Lynn Keddie, Gap Photos/Caroline Mardon, Alamy Stock Photo, Gap Photos/Liz Every
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
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