Trellis fruit can provide generous yields. Until this happens, the gardener has to invest some time in care. This includes annual pruning measures so that the tree does not get out of shape.
How do you trim an espalier tree correctly?
Cutting an espalier tree includes planting pruning, espalier shaping, training and maintenance pruning. Regular pruning measures are important in order to optimally promote the espalier shape, the crown and fruit development and to increase the quality of the harvest.
Plant cutting
Regardless of whether you plant the tree in autumn or spring, the first cut takes place after winter. During this procedure, you select the two strongest side branches that grow in the lower part of the crown. These later form the main branches of the first floor and are shortened by a third. It is important that the last eye is directed downwards. Attach the branches to the horizontal wires (€24.00 on Amazon).
Forming the trellis
Cut back vertical or sloping side branches so that about three leaves remain. Depending on the look, you can also reduce these shoots to small stubs. The main shoot, which grows vertically upwards, can be shortened to an outward-pointing eye. If you would like to build additional floors, this measure is not necessary.
Parenting
The espalier shape is further developed with the training cuts. Regular attention is required for the tree to grow in this shape.
First Summer
The following July, maintenance cuts ensure the development of leading branches and fruiting wood on the second floor. Select the strongest side shoots that are above the first level of side branches. Fix these to the trellis at an angle of 45 degrees. As the season progresses, tie the branches further down until they reach their horizontal alignment.
Cutting recommendations:
- Cut steep shoots at the base
- cut off young shoots on the main branch
- shorten all side branches to five to six leaves
- detip lower leading branches
Second Spring
The espalier tree has a basic structure of two floors, which are stimulated to form branches with the following cuts. To do this, remove all shoots that grow steeply upwards and cut off the tips of the leading branches that grow in the second branch level.
Tip
The fruit buds are thicker than leaf buds. Shorten such shoots to about four dormant eyes so that the espalier tree will produce plenty later.
Conservation
These measures are about creating a balanced relationship between the fruit wood and the leading branches. They focus on building an even crown and promote the fruit development of the fruit trees.
Second Summer
Between June and August, cut back all young shoots that grow on the main shoot to around 20 centimeters. Proceed in the same way for all shoots on the floor guide branches. All steep shoots and those that compete with the guide structure through vigorous growth are completely removed.
Third Spring
When pruning, cut back all fruit vines along the branch levels that have branched heavily or are aging to around three to four sleeping eyes. This reduces the fruit yield and improves the quality of the remaining fruits.
