Espalier fruit as a privacy screen - this is how it is green and thick

Espalier fruit as a privacy screen? A delicious idea!

Suitable types of fruit

All local fruit types such as apple, pear, plum, cherry etc. are well suited for the espalier shape. Climbing fruits such as kiwi and grapes can quickly form an opaque wall. Those who like to nibble on berry bushes can also use them as a privacy screen.

Combine types of fruit

So that nobody groans about a large apple harvest, the hedge can grow mixed up. When the trellis is long enough, just plant all of your favorite types of fruit. Let the nursery advise you which espalier fruit varieties go well with each other.

Distance from tree to tree

How big the planting distance between two trees within a trellis has to be cannot be answered generally. The following aspects play a role:

Fruit tree species
selected trellis shape

Clarify both points before buying or planting and ask your specialist dealer for advice on appropriate planting distances. With a simple U shape, more trees can be planted. This way the hedge will grow over faster.

Distance to the neighboring property

A trellis fruit hedge as a privacy screen is usually placed on the property line so that the entire garden is protected from prying eyes. As a rule, a certain distance from the neighboring property must be maintained for fruit trees. In most federal states, however, this does not apply to espalier fruit or to a much lesser extent. This is also a benefit of espalier fruit.

Build trellis scaffolding

Fruit trees need scaffolding so that they can be shaped on it. You can build the scaffolding yourself. For this you need several sturdy wooden posts that you anchor in the ground at certain intervals and wire that you stretch in several rows between them. The scaffolding should be in place before the trees are planted.