Espaliering Shrubs

This is a high maintenance activity.

You should keep in mind that in most situations, you will not want more than one espaliered plant in a given area; the exception would be if the plant looked very natural or was not prominent.

Espalier is the practice of controlling plant growth so that it grows flat against something such as a wall. Should you decide to use an espaliered plant in your landscape, be sure you select a plant which can be managed on the wall.

Choose your plant carefully…

Large, fast growing plants like pyracantha require a huge walled area and they need many hours of pruning every year. On the other hand, Camellia Sasanqua grows much slower and can be managed in a small area.

Nurseries are helpful.

Most nurseries have several different plants that have already had the first pruning to give them their basic shape. However, almost any young plant can be used this way. You should put the plant very near the wall and set it in the ground just as you would most other plants. As the plant grows, you will need to anchor it to the wall. You can get the small anchoring devices from your nursery or garden center.

You should keep in mind that in most situations, you will not want more than one espaliered plant in a given area; the exception would be if the plant looked very natural or was not prominent.

An espaliered plant can be a very distinctive feature in your landscape and can often be used where no other plant can be used.

For more information on espaliering shrubs, contact your local County Extension Office.