Cherry trees can technically be espaliered, but they are generally not the best choice for this training method. Espalier is a technique where fruit trees are trained to grow in a flat, two-dimensional form against a wall or trellis. While many fruit trees, such as apples and pears, are well-suited for espalier, cherries present some challenges.
One major difficulty with espaliering cherry trees is their natural growth habit. Cherries tend to have an upright and vigorous growth habit, which makes it more challenging to train them to grow in a flat, horizontal form. Their branches tend to grow more vertically, making it difficult to achieve the desired shape for espalier.
Furthermore, cherries can be difficult to pollinate when grown as an espalier tree. Most cherry trees require cross-pollination with another compatible variety to set fruit. In an espalier form, the limited number of branches may not provide enough opportunities for cross-pollination. This can result in poor fruit set or no fruit at all.
Another challenge with espaliering cherry trees is the susceptibility to bird damage. Cherries are highly attractive to birds, and when grown in a flat, exposed form, they become an easy target. Birds can quickly devastate a cherry crop, often before the fruits are even ripe enough to harvest. Protecting the cherries from bird damage can be quite challenging when they are grown in an espalier form.
In my personal experience as a gardening and landscaping expert, I have found that cherries are more successful when grown as free-standing trees, allowing them to grow in their natural shape and form. This allows for better pollination, and the tree can be protected from birds using netting or other deterrent methods.
While it is technically possible to espalier cherry trees, they are generally not the best choice for this training method. Their natural growth habit, difficulty in pollination, and susceptibility to bird damage make them less suitable for espalier compared to other fruit trees. It is often more successful to grow cherry trees in their natural form, allowing for better fruit production and protection from birds.
