What To Know
- Carefully place the cordon apple in the hole, ensuring the graft union (the point where the rootstock and scion meet) is about 2 inches above ground level.
- Install a sturdy wire framework, typically a single horizontal wire, at a height of about 3 feet.
- Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the apples from the tree, leaving a small stem attached.
Imagine a stunning, space-saving apple orchard right in your backyard. This isn’t a dream, it’s a reality with cordon apples. These vertical fruit trees offer a compact and visually striking way to enjoy fresh, homegrown apples. Learning how to grow cordon apples is a rewarding journey, one that combines horticultural expertise with artistic flair.
Understanding Cordon Apples: A Vertical Journey in Fruit Growing
Cordon apples, also known as espaliered apples, are trained to grow horizontally along a wire framework. This unique training technique allows for maximum sunlight exposure and efficient space utilization. This makes them ideal for smaller gardens, patios, or even balconies.
Choosing the Right Cordon Apple Variety: A Delicious Decision
The first step in your cordon apple journey is selecting the right variety. Consider your climate, space constraints, and preferred apple type. Some popular cordon apple varieties include:
- Cox’s Orange Pippin: Known for its sweet, aromatic flavor, this classic variety is perfect for dessert apples.
- Braeburn: This crisp, juicy apple offers a balanced sweetness and tartness, ideal for both eating and baking.
- Gala: A sweet and juicy apple with a delicate flavor, perfect for snacking and salads.
- Golden Delicious: This sweet, mild-flavored apple is a versatile choice for eating, baking, and juicing.
Planting Your Cordon Apple: A Foundation for Growth
Once you’ve chosen your cordon apple variety, it’s time to plant it. Follow these steps for a successful start:
1. Site Selection: Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Cordon apples need at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.
2. Preparing the Soil: Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure for added nutrients.
3. Planting: Carefully place the cordon apple in the hole, ensuring the graft union (the point where the rootstock and scion meet) is about 2 inches above ground level. Backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the roots.
4. Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the roots.
Training Your Cordon Apple: Shaping the Vertical Orchard
Training your cordon apple is crucial for its growth and fruit production. This process involves guiding the branches along a wire framework. Here’s how to do it:
1. The Framework: Install a sturdy wire framework, typically a single horizontal wire, at a height of about 3 feet.
2. Initial Pruning: Prune the main stem to about 12 inches above the graft union. This will encourage the growth of side branches.
3. Branch Selection: Select two strong side branches that grow in opposite directions. These will form the main branches of your cordon.
4. Training the Branches: Gently tie the selected branches to the wire framework using soft ties.
5. Ongoing Pruning: Regularly prune any new shoots that grow vertically or outside the framework to maintain the desired shape.
Feeding Your Cordon Apple: Nourishing Growth for Abundant Fruit
Cordon apples thrive on regular feeding. Here’s how to ensure your tree receives the necessary nutrients:
1. Spring Feeding: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring, before new growth emerges.
2. Summer Feeding: During the growing season, provide a light feed of liquid fertilizer every few weeks.
3. Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Harvesting Your Cordon Apple: Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor
The moment you’ve been waiting for has arrived – harvesting your delicious cordon apples. Here’s a guide to ensuring a bountiful harvest:
1. Timing: Apples are typically ready for harvest in late summer or early fall. The best time to pick is when they have reached their full size and color, and have a slight give when gently pressed.
2. Picking: Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the apples from the tree, leaving a small stem attached.
3. Storage: Store harvested apples in a cool, dry place for optimal freshness.
Beyond the Harvest: Maintaining Your Cordon Apple for Years to Come
To ensure your cordon apple continues to thrive and produce fruit for years to come, follow these maintenance tips:
1. Winter Pruning: Prune your cordon apple in late winter or early spring, before new growth emerges. This helps to remove dead or diseased wood, encourage new growth, and maintain the desired shape.
2. Pest and Disease Control: Regularly inspect your cordon apple for signs of pests or diseases. Treat any issues promptly to prevent them from spreading.
3. Watering: Water your cordon apple deeply during dry periods, especially during the growing season.
A Legacy of Fruit: The Lasting Beauty of Cordon Apples
Growing cordon apples is a rewarding journey. From the initial planting to the annual harvest, each stage offers a unique connection to nature. These vertical fruit trees not only provide delicious apples but also add a touch of elegance to any garden. They are a testament to the beauty and practicality of vertical gardening, offering a sustainable way to enjoy fresh, homegrown fruit for years to come.
Information You Need to Know
Q: How often should I prune my cordon apple?
A: Pruning is essential for maintaining the shape and productivity of your cordon apple. You should prune it annually in late winter or early spring, before new growth emerges.
Q: Can I grow cordon apples in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow cordon apples in containers. Choose a container that is at least 15 gallons in size and ensure it has adequate drainage.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect cordon apples?
A: Cordon apples can be susceptible to pests such as aphids, scale insects, and codling moths. Common diseases include apple scab, powdery mildew, and fire blight.
Q: How long does it take for a cordon apple to produce fruit?
A: It typically takes 2-3 years for a cordon apple to produce its first fruit. However, the exact time frame can vary depending on the variety and growing conditions.
Q: Can I train an existing apple tree into a cordon?
A: While it’s possible to train an existing apple tree into a cordon, it’s best to start with a young tree that has a single, straight trunk. Training an older tree can be more challenging.
