Spatial Requirements
Horizontal espalier 'ribbons' (long, narrow bands of espaliers) require an espalier height of 0.7 - 1.2 metres; that is, the distance between the lowest and highest wire should be at least 70 cm. For aesthetic reasons, we recommend keeping a minimal distance of 25 - 40 cm from house corners, windows, doors, and other wall openings (refer to our Planning Tips). A vine with bilateral (double) canes requires a width of about 1.5 m, and a single cane a width of about 0.8 m. For a cane bent and tied into a bow ("circular cane," see below), the espalier width can be as narrow as 50 cm.
Trellising
Small or narrow, ribbon-like trellises are best; for suitable wire rope systems, refer to grapevines.
Establishing and Pruning
As described for vineyard training: for the usual bilateral arched canes, 3 espalier wires are sufficient. For high espaliers, the vertical main trunk is trained correspondingly high; if growth is rather weak, this training period is extended for another year. For very small or narrow spaces, only one lateral arch is formed and is tied as a circular cane (see sketch below, right).
Several grapevines, loosely connected to form an espalier band, a ribbon of green. |
The same espalier "ribbon" as above, before winter pruning, trellis system as per cable system 3050 |
After winter pruning, 2 lateral, slightly arched canes ("flat arch," see photo below) |
Young vine with 2 canes and a replacement spur; detail of image above |
Older vine without replacement spurs; detail of image above |
Grapevine that has been vineyard-trained on a wooden trellis, budding in spring; bilateral, slightly-arched canes |
Detail of upper left photo (espalier band), grape harvest with high yield |
Grapevine on 3 horizontal wires as per cable system 1020. For widths less than 1.5 m, only one lateral cane is formed. |
Vines with medium-height trunks on two horizontal wires as per cable system 1060, bilateral slightly arched canes |
On wooden trellises, the canes can be bent into a semi-circle; here several vines are trained as semi-circles. |