Take a new step in your garden this autumn by planting some step-over fruit trees.

Growing Stepover Fruit Trees

• These fruit trees are effectively one tier espaliers
• They are kept low enough to step over when necessary. 18-25″ will normally suit.
• Starting with a Y shape with two main shoots train them horizontally in opposite directions. Aim for a spread of 10 feet. Prune out the vertical leader
• Support with low wire on a ‘gripple system’.

Benefits of Stepover Fruit Trees

• Ideal for planting in front of ornamental borders
• Form a low edging for vegetable plots.
• Increases the yield from small spaces particularly in smaller gardens. Larger fruit and often less numerous on stepovers.
• There are a growing number of species now available from specialist suppliers particularly of apples and pears. Select spur-fruited varieties on dwarf stock.
• They can become attractive conversation pieces.