Do You Know the Way to Espalier?
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| Photo Credit: Lane Greer |
| The espalier on the left is established, while the one on the right is just getting started. |
Espalier (pronounced ess-PAL-yay or ess-PAL-yer) is a training technique used to grow plants flat against a wall or fence. “Isn’t that unnatural?” you ask. Not so much, really. Plants can naturally take almost any shape, which is why espalier works. Espaliered plants form living fences that also serve as a work of art, and the technique is particularly well-suited for gardeners with small spaces.
What you need to know:- Espalier is a long and labor-intensive process, so it’s not for the novice gardener. You also must choose the right plant – and then stick with it.
- Woody plants (trees and shrubs) are espaliered. Fruit trees (like apples and pears) are often used, but there are many more woody plants that are suitable as well.
- There are several common espalier styles, including fans, grids or weaves, candelabra, and tiered or French cross styles. (Fan shapes are relatively easy to make.) Or choose a more natural shape with curving lines.
What you need to grow:- A flat, blank wall or a fence.
- Appropriate hardware. For wooden walls, use eye screws. For masonry walls, you’ll need to insert plastic plugs, as well as a carbide drill to insert the plugs. You may also need U-bolts. (For masonry, an easier alternative is to create a wooden or wire framework and place it against the wall.)
- Ties. I prefer twist ties, but rubber bands can be used. (Rubber bands freeze and crack more easily during winter, though.) Wire or large staples can also be used, but they’re harder to work with..
- The determination to finish the project.
What you don’t need:- A lot of space.
- A lot of imagination, since espalier styles are pretty standard.
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| Warnings |
- Pruning plants in late summer or early fall stimulates new growth, which won’t harden off in time for winter. Because the plant puts resources into forming this new growth, it doesn’t prepare for winter, so the plant is less hardy overall.
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| Tips |
- Check twist ties often to prevent branches from growing over them.
- In general, deciduous espaliers are more amenable to pruning, and the design really shows up during winter; evergreens provide year-round foliage but can be harder to work with.
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