Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure 5.4
The only difference between a standard and
bush-trained tree is in the length of the trunk.
Figure 5.6
The open vase shape suits fruit trees on
vigorous rootstocks and for those with more garden space
who don't mind using ladders to prune, pick and net. It is
ideal for trees prone to fungal attack like apricots.
you just want trees that look 'treeish'. Some
fruit trees are best grown as an open vase
shape to minimise disease problems, or
perhaps you want an orchard of lollipop-
shaped trees or an avenue of pyramid-like
cones that also bear fruit. Whatever shape
you are after, a disciplined construction
through judicious pruning and training will
make the most of each and every tree. There
are three basic shapes: standard/bush,
spindle/pyramid and the open vase shape
(see Figures 5.4-5.6).
Remember that the apical bud (see page 3)
plays an important role in establishing a
framework of scaffold branches, whether it is
a delicate espalier or a thumping great open
vase tree. The apical bud stands for vegetative
growth, wood production, which is exactly
what a framework needs! Therefore, allow the
apical/terminal buds to extend unmolested
until the scaffold/framework branches are as
long as needed. Shortening well-spaced side
growth only will encourage fruiting wood.
Training branches to the horizontal to
encourage more fruiting wood will also slow
extension growth. When training espaliers
allow the ends of the branch to tilt upwards to
keep the branch progressing.
Often young trees have branches of varying
vigour. One branch is thick and strong,
another is rather thin and weedy. Prune back
the strongest branches further than the
weaker. To encourage the very weakest, leave
them with their apical bud intact.
Figure 5.5
The spindle shape is highly productive, but
temporary props may be needed to support long
branches laden with fruit (right). The pyramid is less
formal without the need for training strings with branches
that incline more to the vertical (left).
