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Bought a discounted leprechaun apple tree (granny) looking to espalier in narrow space against east or ENE wall. Will put sleeper down to add 20cm high of soil-soil is
clay and tiny stones (thrown there from prev owner, to be dug up as much as I can). Should tree be 20 or 30 cm from wall? Do I need to cut 20 to 50% of branches? I have narrow spaces 1 2 and 2.4 m away, do I need to plant 1 or 2 companion apples (columnar I guess) near it or can it grow on its own or should I multi-plant ie another dwarf apple 20 or 40cm away?
Also wife might want to place bamboo screen behind it. Can I pot for 2 weeks while we decide?
Hi @erikc,
For a dwarf Leprechaun apple tree, it’s generally best to keep it at least 30 cm from the wall to allow for air circulation and light penetration, especially when training it as an espalier. Any closer and you risk it burning from the radiated heat.
You don’t need to cut 20–50% of the branches. In fact, you are looking for branches you can use to espalier it. Removing branches now is only going to limit your options.
In terms of pollination, apple trees usually need a compatible companion nearby to set fruit reliably, as most apples are not self-fertile. With your narrow space, you could plant a columnar or another dwarf apple within 1–2 m of your Leprechaun tree, or even slightly further, as long as it flowers at the same time. Multi-planting right beside it is also an option, but one well-placed companion is usually enough.
If you’re not ready to plant it in the ground, you can pot the tree for a couple of weeks, but make sure it’s in a reasonably large container with good-quality soil and keep it well-watered while you decide on the final layout. It's also probably fine to remain in the bag it came in.
For the bamboo screen, just ensure there’s still enough space for airflow behind the tree so the wall and screen don’t trap too much moisture, which can encourage disease.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Mitchell
