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Choosing between fan-trained and espalier fruit trees depends primarily on the species of fruit you wish to grow and the specific dimensions of your available support structure. While both methods are designed to save space by training trees flat against a wall or fence, they differ fundamentally in their architecture: fans radiate branches from a short central trunk, whereas espaliers consist of a tall central stem with distinct horizontal tiers of branches.
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Structural distinctions and fruit suitability
The primary difference between these two forms is the growth habit. An espalier is a formal, tiered structure. It typically features a central vertical stem with three to five pairs of horizontal arms. This form is highly effective for apples and pears, particularly those that are spur-bearing.
Fan-trained trees, by contrast, have a much shorter trunk with branches that spread outwards like a folding fan. This structure is commonly used for trained stone fruits—such as peaches, nectarines, apricots, plums, and cherries—which are generally not suitable for the restricted horizontal training required for an espalier. Fans are also commonly used for figs, almonds, and redcurrants.
Space and dimension requirements
Both forms need permanent support. Aspect depends on the fruit: many stone fruits need a warm sunny wall, while some apples, pears and acid cherries suit cooler aspects. However, the footprint and vertical space they occupy vary based on the rootstock used.
Fan-trained space requirements
Fans typically require a support height of around 2m. Their width varies significantly by rootstock. For example, an apple fan on ‘M26’ rootstock may reach 1.8m in height and 3–3.6m in width, whereas one on ‘MM111’ can extend to 2–2.4m high and 4.5–5.5m wide.
Espalier space requirements
Espaliers are generally taller and more linear. They typically reach about 1.8m in height and 3–4.5m in width. Because they are trained in tiers, measure the mature width, height and projection from the wall before choosing; both can occupy several metres of boundary.
Support systems and installation
Both methods rely on a system of horizontal wires to provide the necessary tension for training branches. The specifications for these systems differ to accommodate the different growth patterns.
- For fans: Wires should be erected starting 40cm from the ground, spaced roughly 15cm apart (approximately two brick courses). The wires should be positioned 4-10cm away from the wall using 1.2mm galvanised wire.
- For espaliers: Wires are spaced further apart to accommodate the tiers, typically 35–45cm apart, with the first wire positioned 40cm from the ground.
Trees should be planted slightly away from the support to avoid damaging foundations. For fans, a distance of 15–22.5cm is recommended, while espaliers are typically planted about 30cm from the base of the wall or fence.
Training and pruning logic
The effort required to maintain these trees differs in timing and technique. Both require regular training and pruning, with timing and cuts matched to the species and whether the framework is still being established.
Fan training process
Fan training focuses on creating ‘arms’ at 45-degree angles. Starting with a maiden or whip, the main stem is cut back to 40cm in spring. In summer, two main arms are tied in at 45 degrees. Subsequent years involve selecting shoots from these arms and tying them in at 30 degrees to the main arm to fill out the fan shape.
Espalier training process
Espalier training is a tiered process. The central stem is pruned just above the first wire to stimulate the first pair of horizontal arms. Once these are established, the central stem is allowed to grow to the next wire, where the process is repeated to create the second tier. This continues until the desired number of tiers (usually three or four) is achieved.
Comparing maintenance and growth
Maintenance for both forms is a long-term commitment. If left unpruned, both will lose their shape, but the result differs. An unpruned espalier often becomes ‘top-heavy’, where the upper tier becomes dominant and tree-like, while the lower tiers may die back. A fan that is not managed will simply become a congested bush.
Pruning timing is critical: apples and pears in these forms are generally pruned in late summer when growth slows. Initial fan training and maintenance pruning are different jobs. Follow the species-specific spring/summer schedule for stone fruits and avoid treating all fans like late-summer-pruned apple espaliers.
Summary of key differences
| Feature | Fan-trained | Espalier |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Radiating branches from short trunk | Central stem with horizontal tiers |
| Best For | Stone fruits, figs, apples, pears | Apples, pears |
| Wire Spacing | 15cm apart | 35–45cm apart |
| Planting Distance | 15–22.5cm from wall | ~30cm from wall |
| Visual Effect | Broad, spreading fan | Formal, tiered ladder |
Useful products for this job
The links below open Amazon UK product searches. Check the exact item, seller, current price and compatibility before buying.
- 1.2mm galvanised wire: Used to create the horizontal support system for both fan and espalier training. Choose wire, anchors and tensioners for the span, support and crop load; 1.2mm is a reference for RHS fan training, not a universal structural rating. Search Amazon for 1.2mm galvanised wire.
- Bamboo canes: Necessary for tying in young shoots at specific angles (30-45 degrees) during the initial training phase. Select lengths that exceed the height of the wires to allow for secure attachment. Search Amazon for Bamboo canes.
Related garden guides
- How to Prune Fruit Trees in the UK: A Comprehensive Guide (2026)
- Stunning Garden Arch Ideas with Climbing Plants for UK Gardens (2026)
- More greenhouse & growing guides
Sources and further guidance
- Fan-trained trees: initial training | RHS Advice
- Apples and pears: espalier pruning and training | RHS Advice
- How to grow pears | RHS Guide
Guidance researched in September 2026. The feature image is an AI-generated illustration. Product guidance is based on published information, not hands-on testing.