Columnar fruit refers to fruit varieties that develop a columnar growth habit due to their genetic predisposition or through pruning. Within certain minimum and maximum sizes, the desired height can be regulated by the gardener's hand.
How high can columnar fruit grow?
The height of columnar fruit can be regulated by cutting measures to around 1.5 to 4 meters, depending on the desired yield, growth habit or function as a privacy screen. Pot-grown specimens usually grow slower than outdoor plants.
The height can depend on different criteria
Most types of columnar fruit are allowed to grow to a height of around 2 to 4 meters over the years as part of care. Specimens planted outdoors and well fertilized usually grow more quickly than columnar fruit in pots. According to the special wishes of a hobby gardener, the desired height of columnar fruit can be based not least on the following criteria:
- compact growth habit for balcony or terrace
- desired yield quantity
- Function as privacy screen
While lower heights such as 1.5 meters should probably be aimed for for pot cultivation in addition to outdoor seating, high yields or the function as a privacy screen require a certain minimum height of 2 meters or more.
It's better to think about the optimal height early on
Most types of columnar fruit react sensitively to excessively radical pruning. That's why you should be clear at an early stage about what "final height" you want your fruit to reach. Light pruning can then be carried out on the main shoot every year until the target mark is reached. Last but not least, this also prevents the plant base from becoming bald.
Tip
Many cherry trees sold as columnar fruit grow quite narrowly, but can reach an astonishing maximum height. Although this factor can be desirable, it should be reflected in the planting at an appropriate distance from the neighbor's property.
