Classic apple trees have a tree crown, the size and height of which depends on the tree shape as a bush, half-stem or standard. Certain varieties are also suitable for a hedge-like trellis.

The apple tree is rather unsuitable as a privacy screen

First of all, it must be said that apple trees cannot replace a hedge around the garden in the classic sense that serves as a privacy screen. On the one hand, this is due to the fact that the apple tree loses all its leaves in winter and can therefore not offer any significant privacy protection. On the other hand, too dense growth of the branches, as in a beech or privet hedge, is not at all desirable, as this would encourage fungal infestation and the dangerous powdery mildew.

Practical use of space in small gardens

Nevertheless, the planting of apple tree seedlings in rows and a targeted pruning in the form of a trellis can also make sense for the apple tree. You should think about a hedge of apple trees in the following cases:

  • there is a sunlit wall facing south
  • the garden is very small
  • the harvest should be able to be brought in without a ladder

Apple trees in hedge or trellis form offer the advantage that they are easier to reach for care measures and the harvest, even for older people. However, caution is also required here, as the risk of fungal diseases also increases near the ground due to the lower ventilation caused by wind.

Bring the right plants into shape

Initially, only trees that have been grafted onto a weak growth base should be selected for planting a hedge of apple trees. Even if these keep the effort for winter pruning and summer pruning within limits, as flat-rooters they can still achieve a certain expansion of the root ball. If you want to take advantage of the warmth along a sunlit wall for a sweet apple harvest, you still have to keep a distance of about one meter when planting. Cut the trees into espaliers and attach them to metal wires stretched between solid stakes.

tips and tricks

If you don't want a trellis of apple trees, you can plant apple trees next to each other in a bush form. However, this requires more time and effort in the care, since the individual trees are very difficult to access.

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Trees