We have a huge concrete block wall holding the bank of soil above our driveway. I'm thinking of growing some fruit trees against the wall which I can espalier. I usually prefer informal gardens but my location seems to lend itself to this type of treatment. I don't want any plants grown there to encroach into the driveway since we need every bit of space to turn cars around.
The technique of espalier was perfected by the French as both a decorative and functional method of growing fruit trees. Trees are usually grown against a wall to take advantage of reflected light and heat to extend the growing season and ripen the fruit. Various patterns are used to make the structure pleasing to the eye.
We're all probably familiar with espaliered grape vines but there are so many other varieties of shrubs, trees, and vines which can be espaliered effectively.
Below is my concrete wall, a blank canvas for my ideas. It's about ten feet tall and thirty feet long. There's about a four foot section of earth where I can start the plants. What do you think? A pear tree, a peach, an apple or two. Do you have an espalier? Do you remember seeing one in your travels? What did you think?
I noticed nurseries are starting to get bare root fruit trees stocked. We shall see how far I get with my idea in this regard. Apparently it takes a lot of patience to achieve this type of treatment and several years as well. For more espalier photos click here. Thanks for reading and for all your comments.
