Espalier trees are a total game-changer for bringing some stylish structure to your backyard. The best part? Everything grows within arm’s reach, so you can ditch the shaky ladder come harvest time. Here are some of the most popular trees to grow as an espalier.
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++Quince (Cydonia robusta)
If you’re looking for something a little unique, a quince espalier is a fantastic choice. These fruits are famous for their incredible floral fragrance that wafts through the whole garden. With their beautiful yellow color and elegant shape, they really stand out against a wall or fence. Quince is a wonderful alternative to more common orchard fruits, and since they’re grown on a trellis, you can pick them while standing comfortably on the ground. They make the best jellies and add a sophisticated touch to all sorts of desserts.
++Plum (Prunus domestica subsp)
Plums and Italian prunes are excellent candidates for espalier training. They thrive best in slightly sandy soil in a warm, sheltered spot that soaks up the summer sun—perfect for columnar plum varieties and similar types. When grown as an espalier, the tree won’t tower over you, staying right around shoulder height. Once they’re ripe, you can whip up some homemade preserves or a classic plum tart. Harvesting these sweet treats is a breeze when they’re grown flat against a support.
++Raspberry (Rubus idaeus)
Did you know you can even train certain berries to grow in an espalier style? It’s a great way to get fresh fruit in a tight space, and raspberries are a fan favorite for this. These delicate red berries are easy to pick and pack a punch of sweet flavor. Unlike a wild, messy bramble, an espaliered raspberry stays neat and tidy. This is a perfect project if you have kids—most little ones love “grazing” on fresh berries right from the garden!
++Pear (Pyrus communis)
++Apple (Malus)
The humble apple is a staple in any garden, and it works beautifully as an espalier. There’s a huge demand for apple espaliers, and every gardener seems to have their own favorite variety. If you end up with a bumper crop, you can use a juicer to make fresh cider. One of the best things about apples is their shelf life—if you store them properly, you’ll be enjoying your homegrown harvest well into the winter months.
++Peach (Prunus persica)
For a taste of summer, you can’t beat a peach espalier. They are becoming increasingly popular, especially in warmer regions where they can really soak up the heat. You can even grow a small peach espalier in a large container on a patio. Just pick a sunny spot and make sure to keep it well-watered during those dry spells to ensure juicy fruit.
++Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora “Gallisoniensis”)
Espalier isn’t just for fruit! Ornamental trees are also getting the trellis treatment, and the Magnolia is a top pick. If you choose an evergreen variety like the Southern Magnolia, you’ll have beautiful, glossy green leaves all year round. When it’s in bloom, the tree puts on an impressive show. Unlike the massive Magnolias you see in parks, an espaliered version stays at a manageable height, making it perfect for smaller suburban gardens.
%%Williams Pear (Pyrus communis “Williams”)
Want to grow something with a bit of history? Try a Williams Pear (often known as a Bartlett in the US). These are famous for their use in high-end brandies. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try the old trick of slipping a bottomless bottle over a small growing fruit to create your own “pear in a bottle” specialty right on your espalier!