If you are short on space but always wanted to have a mini orchard, consider purchasing our Combination Espaliered Apple or Pear trees. These fruit trees have been grafted to grow flat and horizontal against a fence or a wall, taking up very little space in the garden. They can turn a small, sunny courtyard into a bountiful source of fruit, vegetables and herbs. It can make the kitchen garden double as a formal garden.

Espaliering is a traditional European pruning technique dating back to the Middle Ages, when feudal lords planted fruit trees along the interior walls of castle courtyards to provide fresh fruit during long sieges. The technique remains popular in Europe and especially in France, but is just beginning to catch on in the U.S.

These clever trees are perfect for condominiums, townhouses and the newer homes, with their doll-sized outdoor spaces. It maximizes usable space and leaves the rest of the open space for entertaining and/or relaxing. The only requirement is sun; fruit trees and vegetables need at least five to six hours of sunlight. So be especially aware of this requirement when selecting a wall support for an espalier.

South-facing walls receive the most sun and heat. West-facing walls get morning shade and intense afternoon sun. The espaliered fruit under such intense exposures may cook and scorch. To avoid these problems, train plants on a wire or wood form positioned about 6 inches from the wall for good air circulation. On the other hand, shade from nearby trees or buildings may alter the amount of sun available to espaliers.

Espaliered fruit trees allow you to inspect fruit and harvest without lugging a ladder around. Those who harvest apples keep both feet on the ground. There are other advantages to espaliering. When you force apples and pears to grow horizontally, they develop more fruit spurs along the flattened branches. The level limbs slow the flow of nutrients to the roots so the tree can generate more fruiting spurs -- something you want. Upright growth encourages sucker and leaf growth -- something you don't want.

In addition to saving space, training the trees along the fence line can produce a dramatic, candelabra-like appearance. It appears difficult but it isn't. It does take about three seasons for the full visual effect to become prominent. Once you establish espalier trees, they will act as a backdrop and you can add seasonal vegetables and herbs under them. Locate pockets of these edibles between trees for a constantly changing landscape.

We stock the largest selection of Espaliered Combination Apple and Pear trees in Santa Clara County. Consider our 4 in1 or 6 in 1 combination trees. You get a whole set of different flavors and the added advantage of the fruit ripening at different times, extending your harvest season. Not only will your garden look great, but you can take pride in serving guests food grown beside the table where they're dining!