Espaliering Made Even Easier
Espaliers are a form of growing fruit trees on wires so they are supported and take the shape of the trellis. It allows one to fit many varieties into a small space, and is orderly - allowing for easy pruning and protecting the trees with netting from pests. Initially it may seem quite complex, but in reality it it quite simple and forgiving, and is a method very well suited to home gardening. (please click image for larger view)

We have developed the KNNN system of espaliering - where one makes trellises at the height of ones' knee, navel, nipple and nose. Four wires, each allowing a horizontal branch, and each year allowing a new one to advance to the next wire up.

The Technique
Start with preparing your ground and making your trellis. Make your row as long as you need, spacing the trees 2 meters apart. The posts should accommodate your highest wire and you can use anything: treated pine posts, metal picket stakes, hard wood - it should be solid for at least 10-15 years. For the horizontals, the best is wire, but again use what comes to hand: pipe, wood, etc.

The following diagrams explain it best. Please download the full article here: Espaliering Made Even Easier - the KNNN System of Growing Apples for the whole story. Have a look at our previous espalier article too: Espaliering Made Easy which may interest you.

Fig. 1 In winter at planting time the young tree is set out at 45 degree and tied loosely to the bottom wire in 2 or 3 places. Consider using our Italian Tying Willow as ties!

Fig. 2 In the first growing season many shoots will arise from the main stem.

Fig. 3 The strongest (or first) shoot is taken to the second wire and the rest cut away to a first or second bud.

Fig. 4 In subsequent years the process is repeated. Train and tie the strongest leader to the next wire and remove the rest.

Fig. 5 When the fruit starts to mature in summer, just cut away the young upright growth on the top row and cover the lot with a net.