Anyone with espalier experience?
I live in Atlanta (climate zone 7) and am just getting interested in using some espaliers in my garden, along a retaining wall and a privacy fence. Does anyone have recommendations for nurseries (preferably in the SE) where I could buy some low-maintenance fruit trees that have already started their training? Or recommendations for good sources of information for someone just getting started?
Thanks very much for any help!
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I was intrigued with the kitchen gardens in Williamsburg VA. I spoke with the tour guides and someone was kind enough to set up a tour given by knowledgable gardeners. I asked a lot of questions about the espaliered kitchen garden fences - apples and pears mostly. Since I was living in Alexandria VA at the time, their information translated pretty well to my zone. I planted an apple fence that was just beginning to "take" when I had to move away. (Kind neighbors have since sent pictures to show the success of my work)
Is there anything like a Williamsburg in your area? Any historic garden(s), grand or otherwise? I've found that, often, the gardeners are happy to share information with those truly interested in learning. Gardeners are a generous bunch.
Good luck on your project.
Edit: you've been given excellent advice from Sal Vanilla. -
Sal Vanilla
Jun 6, 2010 07:30 PM
You may want to retitle this to get people with your zonal/ area experience since that is really your question. you should include what part of Atlanta you live in and the room you have.
Meanwhile, go down to your local nursery - where they might have real experience growing in your area and just pick their brain. Tell them what you like and ask them if you have the room and right location for it. You can also go to a master gardener session usually held in the county courthouse. They advert in the paper. Bring questions and samples. They will be happy to help. Also, go out in your yard and really figure out what you have. Map out your space (with measurements) and note if the soil remains soggy, does not get very much water, is in the sun most of the day and then go make a few copies of your map. Keep one in your wallet. When you go, you will be able to communicate your situation better.
Espalier - if you have the time and are frugal, start out with a sapling. you can direct it according to your own designs against your fence (with line guides or a metal grid).
