To ensure that they remain productive and contained within their intended space, year upon year, fruit trees can be pruned into a variety of forms as follows:

Espalier

Espalier refers to apple or pear trees which are trained in a horizontal/parallel manner.  This is ideal for trees which are to be trained along walls or fences.  To ensure productivity, at least 30-40cm should be left between tiers and additional tiers trained should be limited to one per year.

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Fan

Also suitable for training along walls or fences, this form is ideal for growing sensitive varieties, as it allows them to be grown in a sheltered spot.

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Cordon

This form is trained to grow up in a single column.  Suitable where horizontal space is limited.

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Step Over

Trained to grow horizontally, this form is ideal where vertical space is limited.  Especially enjoyable for children, as it allows them to pick fruit unaided.

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Duo Cordon

A tree which is trained to grow in an upright fashion but with one variety grafted onto the top of another.  A great space-saver for compact gardens.

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U-trained

Ideal for training along walls or fences, this form contains two different varieties trained on separate stems, grafted onto a single trunk.

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Family Trees

These are untrained trees which include a number of varieties, making them an economical solution for many gardeners.

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