UC Master Gardener Jill Lankford described on Apr. 17 how espaliered fruit trees are being used at the Fresno County Master Gardener’s Garden of the Sun to maximize garden space and add visual interest.
The practice of espaliering, which involves training fruit trees or shrubs to grow flat against a wall, fence, or trellis, is highlighted as both practical and artistic for gardeners with limited space. This approach allows multiple varieties to be grown in areas that would otherwise accommodate only one standard tree.
At the Garden of the Sun, located at 1750 N. Winery Ave., seventeen trees have been trained on trellises around an office building and picnic area. Lankford explained that five or six espaliered trees can fit in a space suitable for just one mature tree, offering a diversified harvest and improved flowering. She noted that apples and pears are traditionally chosen for espaliers but other species such as plum, peach, fig, camellias, pyracantha, and rhaphiolepis can also be used if suited to local climate conditions.
Lankford emphasized the importance of proper pruning techniques: “Summer pruning is critical to fruit production. Winter pruning is to maintain the structure of the tree.” She added guidance on timing: “In Fresno, winter prune in January or early February… summer pruning should be done in late July or early August.” She cautioned against pruning stone fruits when rain is forecast due to disease risk.
Other tips provided include avoiding cultivation below fruit trees to prevent root damage and suckers; using organic fiber ties; making thinning cuts just below branch collars; checking whether selected varieties are self-fruiting; and choosing apple types such as ‘Anna’, ‘Dorsett Golden’, ‘Fuji’, ‘Gala’, or ‘Granny Smith’ for Central Valley gardens.
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Visitors can see examples including Pink Lady apples and Fuyu Japanese Persimmon during open hours from 8–11 a.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.