Growing Citrus Espalier for Edible Landscaping

© Project SOUND
Out of the Wilds and Into Your Garden
Gardening with California Native Plants in Western L.A. County
Project SOUND – 2017 (our 13th year)

© Project SOUND
The Gentle Art of Espalier:
Growing Trees and Large Shrubs
in Narrow Spaces
C.M. Vadheim, K. Dawdy (and T. Drake)
CSUDH (emeritus), CSUDH & City of Torrance
Madrona Marsh Preserve
March 4 & 9, 2017

Last month we learned how to make a
small garden appear larger
© Project SOUND
 Unifying by repetition in
hardscape
 Dividing garden into rooms
 Using principles of perspective
 Unifying ‘borrowed’ and
garden backgrounds
 Choosing plants appropriate
for fore-, mid- and
background
 Placement of plants
 The importance of color,
texture and size in creating
the illusion of distance
Shady
seating/
hot tub
Dining

This month we return to our inspirational pictures…
© Project SOUND
http://www.turning-earth.co.uk/news/index.php/2013/

First, let’s define the attributes of the area
 About 30-35 ft. long
 Would like something narrow
to conserve space
 North-facing but still has
good sun mid-day into
afternoon – perfect for many
trees/shrubs
© Project SOUND
http://14textures.com/aged-cinder-block-wall-texture/
The current wall is not
particularly attractive

Several options for
hiding an ‘ugly wall’
 Hardscape options
 Paint/stain it a grayed, medium-
dark color to blend into the
distance – makes yard look bigger
 Paint a mural on it – looks smaller
 Put an ornamental wall sculpture
on it – also makes yard look
smaller
 Planting options
 Plant something in front of it
 Grow something on it
 Combo solutions
© Project SOUND

We love the look of the green wall…
But we need something narrow that
will provide habitat, edibles or both
© Project SOUND
http://www.turning-earth.co.uk/news/index.php/2013/
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/488077678336601283/

What is an espalier?
 Two pronunciations:
 es-PAH-lee-ay (French)
 es-PAH-lee-er (also OK)
 Definition(s):
 Horticultural and agricultural
practice of controlling plant
growth by pruning and tying
branches to a frame, frequently
in formal patterns, flat against a
structure such as a wall, fence,
or trellis
 Plants which have been shaped in
this way.
© Project SOUND

Espaliers  Can be created using fruiting/
flowering trees and/or selected
native shrubs/trees (need to have
proper growth structure)
 Great use of narrow spaces
 Can add color, texture, aroma and
other elements to a dull wall/fence.
 Fewer – but better quality - fruits
© Project SOUND
http://thisbountifulbackyard.com/2012/05/13/mothers-day-trip-to-
chicago-botanic-garden/

Difference between a narrow hedge and an
espalier  Narrow hedge/screen
 Free-standing; requires no support
 Usually formed from shrubs or trees;
must be hedge-able
 Often deeper than an espalier
 Often more dense than espalier
 Often better choice for background
(creating illusion of depth)
 Espalier
 Plants require support
 Can be done with selected trees/
shrubs and vines; must be trainable
 Can be trained to a quite shallow depth
– 12-24 inches
 Can be used to make an area look
smaller – can be an accent
© Project SOUND

Are you the right kind of gardener for
espalier?
 Planner: need to plan ahead to
create space, design, support
structure
 Patient: espalier takes time to
develop (5-10 years or more)
 Pruner: need to regularly
prune out branches not
consistent with design
 Adventurous: adapting native
species to espalier is a leap of
faith and an adventure
© Project SOUND
 Artistic: need to be able
to envision the completed
espalier

© Project SOUND
First, you need a vision

What do you see?
 Blank green screen that fades into
the background?
 Decorative accent? Wall art?
 Evergreen or deciduous?
 Showy flowers, fruits?
© Project SOUND
http://www.merrywoodplants.com.au/www/content/default.aspx?cid=741

We like the idea of growing an
edible espalier(s)
What will work within our constraints
(size; light; water; soil; etc.) and be
consistent with our design concept?
© Project SOUND

The best fruiting trees for larger espaliers have
a long history of use (Europe and Middle East)
 Apples (Malus)
 Pears (Pyrus)
 Stone fruits: peach, nectarine,
plum, cherry (Prunus)
 Figs (Ficus)
 Citrus: lemon, lime, orange,
tangerine
 Grapes (Vitus)
 Loquat (Eriobotrya)
 Pomegranate
 Olive (Olea)
© Project SOUND

Espaliers  First introduced in Egypt and in
Roman times; later refined in the
European Middle Ages
 Espaliers were a way of planting fruit
trees and berry-bearing shrubs in
limited spaces (small courtyards)
© Project SOUNDhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Espalier

© Project SOUND
Classical forms of
formal espalier
 Very formal, named patterns
 History dates back to Middle Eastern
& medieval European gardens
 Most often used for fruit trees with
regular growth patterns – apples,
pears, pomegranates, etc.
 Not difficult, but require regular
maintenance and choice of proper
species
 Many good books and on-line
resources
http://www.edenwines.co.uk/Glossary_e.html
http://www.livingwallart.com/living-walls/pleaching-and-espalier/

Olives
© Project SOUNDhttps://www.pinterest.com/pin/501799583465499227/
http://www.selfsufficientme.com/fruit-vegetables/fruit-tree-diversity-
for-healthy-eating-all-year-round

Apples are often grown along walls
© Project SOUND
http://zelenisvet.com/jablana/
http://growingfruit.org/t/espalier-apple-trees-re-worked/1353
https://www.pinterest.com/explore/landscaping-trees/
https://www.pinterest.com/FruitTreeExpert/espalier-fruit-tree-training-methods/
Single horizontal cordon

Apples/pears: adaptable to other forms
© Project SOUND
https://www.starkbros.com/growing-guide/article/espalier-fruit-trees
Oblique cordon

Grapes are also typically
trained as horizontals
© Project SOUND
https://www.pinterest.com/mjestenson/grape-trellis/
We could grow table grapes,
native grapes or a combination –
but grapes are winter-deciduous.

Perhaps an informal espalier might be
more consistent with our vision?
© Project SOUND
http://gardenista.com/posts/driveway-fruit-tarts-a-love-story
…and easier for
us as beginning
espalier artists

Fig – dramatic informal
© Project SOUND
http://www.houstongardengirl.com/2011_03_01_archive.html
http://www.wilsonbrosgardens.com/how-to-prune-a-fig-tree-or-bush.html
https://www.pinterest.com/MrsPluckrose/espalier-fig/
http://frenchfigfarm.com/figs-of-versailles/

© Project SOUND
After considering all the possibilities, we decide
that our goal is to mostly just hide the back wall,
using evergreen edibles

We decide to espalier the back wall with
several citrus
 Before planting, make a scale drawing of your design:
 Insures you space plants properly, according to final size
 Insures you prune and shape plants according to design
 Also helps you decide what type of support structure you’ll
need
© Project SOUND
http://wattspermaculture.com.au/about-permaculture/methods/
Citrus work well in water-
wise, Mediterranean design.
Dwarf lemons, limes and
tangerines could all be used
(if you eat all three).

Lemons, limes and tangerines can be espaliered
© Project SOUND
https://justmerveilleux.wordpress.com/2016/05/26/an-espalier-of-citrus-and-gardening-
in-may/
http://www.city-
data.com/forum/tucson/1003546-whats-
real-estate-value-mountain-view.html
http://www.salife7.com.au/south-australia/gardening/tips/august-
garden-diary-and-espaliered-trees-plus-garden-pallet-giveaway

Work with the shape of the plant for best results
 Fan shape takes advantage of
natural growth pattern
 Flowers and fruit on year-old spurs
© Project SOUND
http://www.amarmielife.com/2012/05/espalier-fruit-trees.html
Plum
Cherry

Informal Fan pattern
works well with citrus
 Fan – branches angled at 45° grow
radiating from a central trunk in a fan-
shaped pattern.
 Best for spaces requiring vertical
coverage (ugly wall) or in square spaces.
 Citrus all have slightly different forms –
but all are amenable to training to an
Informal Fan design
 We’ll choose young, dwarf citrus
 Sunset book Citrus (1996), suggests
good choices for espalier are Eureka
lemon, Nagami kumquat, Eustis limequat,
Tarocco blood orange, and Chandler
pummelo.
© Project SOUND
http://www.city-data.com/forum/tucson/1003546-whats-real-estate-
value-mountain-view.html

© Project SOUND
http://wildsuburbia.blogspot.com/2010/04/theodore-payne-foundation-annual-garden.html
http://www.answers.com/topic/espalier
Espalier requires
support – at least
early on
 Branches may be too
thin to provide support
 Support structures
facilitate training the
plant to a desired
pattern – you attach
the branch to the
support so it grows in
the desired direction

Espaliers require
support
 Considerations when planning an
espalier support:
 Whether support will be part of
design or just provide support
 Espalier form, size
 How long the support will be
required (life for vines)
 What is the surface to which the
support will be attached (or be in
front of)
 How sturdy needs it be (heavy
fruits need good support)
© Project SOUND
http://www.millcreekgardens.com/learning-art-espalier-gardening/
http://www.classic-garden-elements.co.uk/item.php/Wall%20Trellis/Espalier%20Trellis/

Support for our back
wall citrus espalier
 Considerations when planning an
espalier support:
 Just provide support (hidden)
 Informal fans; 7 ft tall x 30 ft
long (total)
 Needs to support plants just to
get going (5 years maximum)
 Cinderblock masonry wall
 Young plants require good
support; fruits can be heavy
© Project SOUND
http://www.city-data.com/forum/tucson/1003546-whats-real-estate-
value-mountain-view.html
http://14textures.com/aged-cinder-block-wall-texture/

Several companies offer ‘tension cable
trellis systems’ (‘wire foliage systems’)
 Look for details about the products
on-line
© Project SOUNDhttps://www.secosouth.com/products/stainless-steel-
cable-trellis-system-2000-60/
https://www.harrodhorticultural.com/wall-mounted-wire-growing-system-
pid8089.html
Some attach
fasteners directly
to a masonry wall;
other have frames
that attach to the
wall

We could create a simple system of
training wires attached to the wall
1. Chalk out rough design of espaliers on the wall
2. Decide the placement of the support wires –
often 12-18 inches apart; mark the lines
3. Using a masonry bit, drill holes on the pattern
lines every 18 inches or so (for 2-inch expansion
shields, which will anchor eyebolts into masonry)
4. Insert the shields; screw in eyebolts that are
long enough to create a 4- to 6-inch air space
between the eyes and the masonry
5. Secure 12- or 14-gauge galvanized or stainless
steel wire between the eyebolts for tethering
the espalier's branches.
© Project SOUND
http://homeguides.sfgate.com/distance-between-rows-
espalier-apple-trees-49846.html
http://espaliers.blogspot.com/2012/03/building-wire-
support-system.html

Alternatively, design a
free-standing support
frame
© Project SOUND
https://deepgreenpermaculture.files.wordpress.com/2009/09/espalier-
003a.png?w=640
Sturdy fence post

We could use sections
of metal fencing
 For more ideas:
https://www.thisoldhou
se.com/ideas/grow-
espaliered-trees-slim-
fit
© Project SOUND
https://www.pinterest.com/kimmicurnow
/trellis/
https://www.pinterest.com/springfels/garden-espalier/
For an informal citrus espalier, we could even
just install individual eyebolts, as needed, to
tie individual branches to
http://tate-fencing.co.uk/product-
category/fencing/security-fencing/

© Project SOUND
Turnbuckles for increasing tension; temporary trainers
provide support for individual branches, as needed
http://deborahsilver.com/blog/tag/belgian-fence/
Tie branches to the wires loosely, with soft
ties, strips of old nylons, Velcro garden strips
Best method: first attach the tie to the
support. Then tie the end(s) to the branch.
Allows you to support the branch loosely but
firmly.
http://www.balingwire.net/application/soft-garden-tie-wire.html

Citrus Espalier
 Start with young trees - they will be easier
to train.
 For a beginner, an informal design is easiest.
 For an informal fan, allow the tree to branch
naturally, pruning out any branches that stick
out too far, grow back, or cross other
branches.
 While citrus are often trained against a
sunny, south-facing wall, this may be too hot
in some S. CA gardens.
 If you have a warm, inland garden, an east
or even north-facing aspect may be
better, if plants get at least 4 hours of
good sun in summer.
 Check out the light and temperature
(measure it) during the planning stage
© Project SOUND
http://www.onlineplants.com.au/shopping-
cart/espalier-cumquat

Training the espalier
 Gently tie the branches to the support
with stretchy garden tape; check every 6
months – remove or loosen as needed
 As the tree grows, keep tying the new
growth to the frame
 Prune off anything that grows out of
shape or off the structure.
© Project SOUND
http://xtremehorticulture.blogspot.com/2014/03/what-is-good-
patio-conttainer-fruit-tree.html
http://gardendrum.com/2012/07/03/garden-design-with-citrus/
http://www.gardenersedge.com/soft-twist-tie-garden-wire/p/VP-STT/

© Project SOUND
Our plan - and a few years – should take care
of the back wall

Now let’s consider the side wall (along a
chain-link fence)
 Approximately 35 ft long
 Morning, mid-day and some
afternoon sun – excellent exposure
 Chain-link fence – want some privacy
 Would like to use CA native
tree/shrub(s) for habitat
© Project SOUND
https://naturalearning.org/naturalizing-chain-link-fences

Espalier on a chain
link fence?
 Often works amazingly well
 Completely disguises the fence
 Can be adapted to formal
‘fence’ designs or informal
© Project SOUND
http://urban-agrarian.blogspot.com/2006_02_01_archive.html
http://forums2.gardenweb.com/discussions/1411190/using-plants-as-a-landscaping-
tool
http://statebystategardening.com/state.php/il/newsletter-
stories/espalier_it_only_sounds_ostentatious/

All good espaliers start with a plan.
What’s our vision?
 Background or accent?
 Formal or informal?
 Evergreen or deciduous
 Single species or several
© Project SOUND
http://www.mainlinefence.com/commercial/temporary-fencing
http://www.organicgardendreams.com/2015/12/mottisf
ont-abbey-rose-lovers-paradise-v.htmlhttps://www.pinterest.com/jeannieballard/vertical-
gardening/
 Flowers? Fruits?
 Interesting or unusual
foliage or bark?
 Type of habitat it provides?

Choices for flowers
 Classic choices
 Camelia
 Climbing roses
 Clematis
 California native choices
 Look for plants with the right
attributes
© Project SOUND
http://galleries.sacredspacegardendesign.com/PlantDatabase/VINES-1/i-wDGSt2L
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/347410558739387804/ https://www.pinterest.com/pin/152770612335274057/
Cercis occidentales

© Project SOUND
http://www.flickr.com/photos/82479320@N00/2366664105/
http://www.californianativeflora.com/plants/western-redbud/introducing-cercis-occidentalis-western-redbud/
Western Redbud - Cercis occidentalis
Species with open and dramatic
growth patterns can be trained
into unique, informal espaliers

Adapting old tricks to new horizons
 European Victorian gardeners
tried all sorts of ‘exotics’ as
espalier candidates
 Some were even CA natives:
Ceanothus; Fremontodendron
© Project SOUND
http://www.gapphotos.com/GardensBlog/?m=201602&paged=2
Silk tassel - Garryea ellipica
http://www.imgrum.org/tag/Garrya

© Project SOUND
http://www.calfloranursery.com/pages_whatsnew/whatsnewmar07.html
Most Ceanothus have growth patterns not
suited to formal pruning
 Good choices for informal espalier/
narrow screen:
 Ceanothus thyrsiflorus – species &
cultivars
 Ceanothus ‘Concha’
 Ceanothus 'Dark Star‘
 Ceanothus 'Julia Phelps‘
 Ceanothus ‘Skylark’

Ceanothus
‘Skylark’
© Project SOUND
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/355080751841424139/ http://www.andre-briant.fr/catalogue-
pepinieriste/familles/arbustes-persistants/3797-ceanothus-x-
skylark-arbustes-persistants.html
Ceanothus
‘Concha’
Examples of Ceanothus as informal espaliers/screens

© Project SOUND
‘Ray Hartman’
Tree-like ceanothus can
be trained more formally
http://www.julieorrdesign.com/saratoga-landscape-design-makeover/kleckner-033
 Choose species or cultivars with more
open growth habit
 Choose species that can take shaping
 For a formal espalier, choose a plant with
even branches
 Start shaping right away – 1st year

© Project SOUND
Training Ceanothus to narrow
screen or formal espalier
http://www.keith-allen.co.uk/garden/c.htm
Ceanothus "Ray Hartmann" and
Cercis Occidentalis
http://bammorgan.blogspot.com/2008/04/payne-foundation-garden-tour.html

Ceanothus
‘Trewithen Blue’
© Project SOUND
https://www.pinterest.com/dympnanoonan/ceanothuscali
fornian-lilac/
https://www.pinterest.com/anikacs/trewithen-blue/
https://www.burncoose.co.uk/site/plants.cfm?p
l_id=949&fromplants=pl_id%3D948%26fromca
tegory%3Dcat_id%253D23
Might be more long-lived
than ‘Ray Hartman’

Native candidates for
espalier: attributes
 Usual tests for appropriateness: soil,
light, water
 Medium to fast growth
 Appropriate size for space (smaller
trees/shrubs for smaller gardens)
 Open growth habit (often)
 Regular growth habit (for formal
espaliers)
 Shapeable (major branches can be
bent for at least a few months when
young)
© Project SOUND
http://rachel-the-gardener.blogspot.com/2011_12_01_archive.html

© Project SOUND
* Coast Silktassel – Garrya elliptica
http://groups.ucanr.org/mbmg/Al's_Corner/Garrya_elliptica_'James_Roof'.htm
https://www.pinterest.com/p
in/418694096581655546/
Garrya elliptica
‘James Roof’

© Project SOUND
Canyon Silktassel – Garrya veatchii
Charles Webber © California Academy of Sciences

© Project SOUND
Canyon Silktassel: Evergreen shrub/tree
 Size:
 8-15 ft tall
 6-8+ ft wide
 Growth form:
 Evergreen shrub; sometimes tree-
like (even in wild)
 Interesting branch structure – can
prune to emphasize
 Foliage:
 Simple, thick leaves
 Shiny dark green above; white below
 Held upright – quite interesting
J. E.(Jed) and Bonnie McClellan © California Academy of Sciences.
http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Image:Garrya_veatchii_3.jpg
Shrub is somewhat reminiscent of
evergreen oaks or olive

© Project SOUND
Canyon Silktassel looks good in modest
circumstances
 Soils:
 Texture: any well-drained; light
or heavy
 pH: any local
 Light: full sun to light shade
 Water:
 Winter: needs adequate
 Summer: Zone 1-2 or 2; quite
drought tolerant
 Fertilizer: none; likes poor soils
 Note: deer will browse
J.S. Peterson @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

© Project SOUND
Flowers are very showy
http://www.callutheran.edu/wf/chap/family/bjc-1571.htm
http://www.laspilitas.com/plants/324.htm
 Blooms:
 Late winter/spring
 Usually Jan/Feb to April –
gives some needed interest to
the winter garden
 Flowers:
 Look like little white cups
strung along a drooping wire
 Very interesting, showy
 Male trees more showy
than females
 Seeds:
 Females produce berries with
seeds
 Birds like the berries

© Project SOUND
http://flickr.com/photos/eastbaywilds/2639509357/in/set-72157605994464500/
Canyon Silktassel makes a lovely addition to the Mediterranean garden

© Project SOUND
Why are Garryas so
good for espalier?
 Evergreen
 Good size – not too large
 Interesting foliage and bark
 Open growth pattern – natural
growth is rangy
 Will take the pruning and training
required for espalier
http://www.flickr.com/photos/eastbaywilds/4374971109/

© Project SOUND
Garryas can become
formal or informal
espaliers
 Note regular growth pattern
 The choice is up to you
http://eleanorathens.blogspot.com/2009/01/facade-greening-foundation-shrubs-and.html http://www.cnr.vt.edu/dendro/dendrology/syllabus2/facts
heet.cfm?ID=836

Training a formal espalier
 The tree must be in its first year or two of
growth.
 May take 5-10 years from start to finish.
 Train the tree to the support while the limbs
are still flexible. Do not tie the ends of
shoots down too soon.
 Develop lower, outer limbs before inner,
upper ones.
 Balance limb vigor by raising weaker ones,
lowering stronger ones, or by leaving weaker
ones upright until they catch up to the
stronger ones, which you have bent down.
© Project SOUND

Selective pruning: shapes the espalier
 Individual branches are
selected for pruning
 Individual branch removed
entirely
 Individual branch pruned back
to a bud to re-direct growth
© Project SOUND
http://tyo.swanndvr.net/pruning.html#
http://www.joshuatreescape.com/tag/tree-pruning/
http://foodnotlawnsinternational.blogspot.com/

© Project SOUND
Selective removal (thinning) – removing branches
that don’t grow where you want them
 Need to start the first
year – literally once it’s
safely in the ground
 Remove entire unwanted
branches above the collar
 Poorly spaced branches
 Branches growing out or
in wrong direction
 Dead or sick branches
http://camissonia.blogspot.com/2010/02/more-
manzanitas-in-bloom.html
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/home_blog/2010/0
6/emily-green-dry-garden-bark-trees-shedding.html
https://www.todayshomeowner.com/basic-shrub-pruning-techniques/

 Any branch that is unwanted or un-
needed for the design or for
flower/fruit production
 Done at least 1-2 times a year for
most species, usually when dormant
and/or after flowering
© Project SOUND
https://www.rightplants4me.co.uk/content/apple-pruning-maiden-first-year-and-
espalier-training
https://www.kings.co.nz/garden-news/to-prune-or-not-to-prune
Selective removal: uses in espalier
http://www.livingoffgridguide.com/gardening/how-to-prune-fruit-nut-trees/

Selective pruning: forcing the position
and/or direction of new growth
© Project SOUND
https://crickethillgarden.wordpress.com/2013/03/05/pruning-a-
mature-tree-peony/
 Branch tip pruned just above a branch(s)
or bud growing in the desired direction
 Forces branch buds below the cut to
grow (or grow more vigorously)
 Forces growth in desired direction

Uses in espalier
 In formal espalier: to force
branching at desired position or
in desired direction; to develop
fruiting spurs
 In informal espalier: to fill out an
area; develop fruiting spurs
© Project SOUND
http://www.pruningspecialties.com/page1.html
http://www.tuigarden.co.nz/howtoguide/fruit-tree-espalier-guide
https://urbanwinegrower.wordpress.com/2010/01/01/winter-pruning-of-vines-from-
infancy-to-the-fourth-year/

Formal espaliers require selective pruning
at all steps in their development
© Project SOUND
http://www.curranappleorchard.com/espalier-tips

In Europe, evergreen oaks are espaliered
© Project SOUND
http://www.espaliers.eu/en/products/4211114357/bladhoudend
These oaks are pleached

© Project SOUND
*Redshanks – Adenostoma sparsifolium

© Project SOUND
What a flower show!
 Blooms: in summer – usually
June-Aug.
 Flowers:
 Small white/cream flowers
 Clearly rose flowers when you
look closely
 On dense flowering branches –
plant covered with blooms in a
good year
 Very important pollinator
plant
 Vegetative reproduction: in
some areas, most reproduction is
now vegetative; sprouting roots
http://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/adenostoma-sparsifolium

© Project SOUND
Plant Requirements  Soils:
 Texture: adaptable; often
grows in shallow soils in
nature – likes well-drained
 pH: any local
 Light: full sun
 Water:
 Winter: needs good rains or
irrigation – normally gets
more than here.
 Summer: summer dry to
occasional ‘summer monsoon’
 Other: organic mulch
Steven Perkins @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
http://www.smmflowers.org/bloom/species/Adenostoma_sparsifolium.htm
In Santa Monica Mtns

© Project SOUND
Redshanks: large chaparral shrub/tree
 Size:
 6-18+ ft tall
 10-15 ft wide
 Growth form:
 Large woody shrub/tree
 Many trunks/branches with
shreddy red bark on older limbs –
‘born to burn’
 Nice natural shape – rounded
 Moderate growth rate; lives 100+
years
 Foliage:
 Sclerophyllous leaves: thick,
linear/narrow, sticky
 Roots: has lignotubers (sprouting
roots)
© Br. Alfred Brousseau, Saint Mary's College
©2004 Steven Perkins
Charles Webber © California Academy of Sciences

Native candidates for espalier: attributes
 Usual tests for appropriateness:
soil, light, water
 Appropriate size for space
(smaller trees/shrubs for smaller
gardens)
espaliers)
bent for at least a few months
when young)
© Project SOUND
Excellent choice for
another garden
http://www.smmflowers.org/mobile/species/Adenostoma_sparsifolium.htm

© Project SOUND
Lemonadeberry & Toyon can
both be espaliered
http://tmousecmouse.b
logspot.com/2009/12/n
ative-plant-of-month-
toyon.html

Toyon/California Christmas Berry –
Heteromeles arbutifolia

Gardening requirements
 Soils:
 pH: any
 Texture: sandy and rocky soils are
fine; well-drained best
 Full sun to full shade
 Water:
 Regular until established
 Very drought tolerant after first
few years
 Tolerates occasional summer
watering
 Disease: susceptible to fungal
diseases - fire blight, root rot,
also scales, thrips
http://www.sixriversrestoration.com/plantphotos/HarbutifoliaFull.jpg
Readily available in nurseries
http://www.baynatives.com/plants/Heterom
eles-arbutifolia/

Toyon hedgerows
At CSUDH – est. 2008
At Rancho Santa Ana Bot. Garden
Toyon can be formally
hedged or used as a more
informal hedge/hedgerow

Mother Nature’s
Toyon espalier
© Project SOUND
2014
2015 2016
The Toyon espalier is ready for
some work. Come help & learn
on March 11th.

© Project SOUND
Spicebush – Calycanthus occidentalis
http://www.callutheran.edu/wf/nca/family/nca-360.htm

© Project SOUND
Spicebush – Calycanthus occidentalis
http://www.efloras.org/object_page.aspx?object_id=5814&flora_id=1
http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/cgi-bin/get_JM_treatment.pl?2767,2768,2769
 Grows in the northern Coast Range,
the southern Cascades Range, and the
western Sierra Nevada
 Some are apparently naturalized in
the Palomar Mountains (San Diego Co.)
 Likes moist, shady conditions: stream
side, canyons
 Calycanthus – the Sweetshrub genus:
 Calycanthus occidentalis (western
U.S.)
 Calycanthus floridus (eastern U.S.)
 Prized for unusual flowers; spicy scent

© Project SOUND
Spicebush is an attractive
aromatic shrub
 Size:
 usually 4-10 ft tall; to 15 ft.
 usually 4-10 ft wide
 Growth form: a mound-
shaped, deciduous shrub with
erect, multiple stems
 Foliage:
 large, fragrant, bright green
leaves that darken with age
 Aroma ‘like old wine barrels’ –
smell it before you buy
 Deciduous; turn yellow in fallJ.S. Peterson @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

© Project SOUND
Unusual flowers
 Blooms:
 usually May-Aug in S. CA
 Fairly long bloom period
 Flowers:
 Dark red to bronze-purple
 ‘petals’ are actually sepals
 2” across, at ends of branches
 Very showy; may have spicy
scent (like foliage)
 Seeds:
 Interesting bell-shaped
seedpod
 Seed is poisonous if ingested
http://wildflower.utexas.edu/plants/res
ult.php?id_plant=CAOC5
J.S. Peterson @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
Mark W. Skinner @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

© Project SOUND
Spicebush needs some shade and
summer water
 Soils:
 Texture: any
 Light: does best in partial to even full
shade, particularly in hot gardens
 Water:
 Best with regular (weekly) watering
during dry periods – remember, it
naturally grows along streams
 Fertilizer: likes deep, rich soils; give a god
leaf mulch or occasional (low dose)
fertilizer
 Other: easy to grow if given these
conditions; just requires occasional pruning
http://www.calflora.net/bloomingplants/spicebush.html
Sudden Oak Death (SOD) alternate host

© Project SOUND
Adaptable Spicebush
 Woodsy touch with Heuchera
species, Iris douglasiana, and Ribes
species (currants/gooseberries)
 Makes an excellent background
shrub, small tree (prune to tree
shape) or in hedge/hedgerows
 Can be trained/espalieredhttp://drystonegarden.com/index.php/tag/spicebush/
http://back40feet.blogspot.com/2008_12_01_archive.html

What shape would you choose? Why?
© Project SOUND
http://ucanr.edu/blogs/blogcore/postdetail.cf
m?postnum=22089
https://www.burncoose.co.uk/site/plants.cfm
?pl_id=674
Formal or
informal?
https://www.flickr.com/photos/eastbaywilds/sets/72157605999052273/

Native shrubs/trees for side yard espalier
 Ceanothus (tree-like types)
 Garryas
 Calycanthus
 Heteromeles arbutifolia
 Rhus integrifolia
 Amorpha species
 Berberis (Mahonia) aquifolium
 Others – see list for some
suggestions
© Project SOUND

Now let’s turn to other parts of the garden….
© Project SOUND
… and learn how the
principles of perspective
can be used to make an area
appear smaller
Shady
seating/
hot tub
Dining
http://www.daviddomoney.com/2015/01/21/small-garden-design-
ideas-young-gardeners-year/

What do we want our hot tub area to look like?
© Project SOUND
 Area size: 20’ x 14’
 Spa size:
 Walkway/access: 3-4 ft
 Divider screen: 2’ x 16-17’
Shady
seating/
hot tub
Dining

Which look fits our site, needs and
concept of the ‘perfect retreat’?
© Project SOUND
Large and expansive (larger than
the actual site)
Cozy and contained (looks like a
small room)
https://www.pinterest.com/explore/backyard-hot-tubs/

The contained garden
© Project SOUND
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/710725
00349319142/
http://blog.metmuseum.org/cloistersgardens/2012/08/
Not a new concept at all

Making a garden appear smaller
 Choose a white/light/bright fence or
wall (unless background is desert)
 Make background hardscape
(including seating) and plants
oversized and brightly colored
 Include lots of detailed features in
background
© Project SOUND
http://imanada.com/nu
/217429/california-
garden/

The rules of perspective in the contained garden
 To make the garden appear small and
cozy, make the background ‘advance’
by choosing:
 Taller/larger plants than you’d
expect (don’t blend evenly with
outside backdrop)
 Tall, light or bright walls - or those
with obvious texture
 Coarse textured plants in
background; finer texture in
foreground
 Decorative accents in background
(either plants or hardscape)
 High contrast in background
© Project SOUND
https://www.pinterest.com/explore/mediterranean-garden/
An accent espalier can help
make an area look smaller

What look is right for
the hot tub area?
 Looks larger?
 Looks smaller?
 Something in between?
© Project SOUND
http://www.rozmarin.info/garden/outdoor-spa-design-ideas/unique-outdoor-spa-design-
ideas-unique-this-entry-is-part-of-15-in-the-series-cool-backyard-design-ideas/

We also realize that the hot tub
and dining areas should be
considered together
 What do we want to do with the
enclosing walls; same or different?
 Want some privacy between the two
areas; but how much?
© Project SOUND

Use the same hardscape to tie the two
areas together
© Project SOUND
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/439663982342529836/ https://www.pinterest.com/pin/44262008814157117/ https://www.pinterest.com/pin/439945457330614521/
Then espalier something that’s pretty and scented

We could use non-native vines…
© Project SOUND
http://artofgardeningbuffalo.blogspot.com/2009/06/show-me-your-clematis-ill-show-you-my.html
…but decide to explore some native options as well

© Project SOUND
California false indigo – Amorpha californica
http://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/amorpha-californica

 Coastal ranges from N. CA to AZ, Baja
 Santa Monica Mtns, San Gabriel
mountains, Griffith Park
 Dry slopes in Yellow Pine Forest,
Chaparral, Mixed Evergreen Forest,
Northern Oak Woodland; stream banks
© Project SOUND
California false indigo – Amorpha californica var. californica
http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/cgi-bin/get_JM_treatment.pl?3691,3713,3714,3715
©2011 Aaron Arthur

© Project SOUND
False indigo: large
shrubby pea
 Size: (varies w/ light)
 5-8 ft tall
 5-8 ft wide
 Growth form:
 Woody shrub
 Rather irregular shape
 Foliage:
 Drought-deciduous; green with a
little summer water
 Medium green
 Leaves compound, large (1 ft) with
simple leaflets
 Plant noticeably hairy
 Pleasant scent: guava, pineapple,
lavender maybe a little pine
 Larval food plant for CA State
butterfly, the California Dogface
(Zerene eurydice).
©2011 Aaron Arthur
©2010 Dee E. Warenycia

© Project SOUND
Flowers unique
 Blooms: in spring; usually April-June
 Flowers:
 On dramatic, wand-like stalks
 Purple-magenta fused sepals give
the color
 Anthers extend well beyond the
sepals
 Flower type typical for Amorpha
spp.
 Seeds: in one-seeded pod; plant fresh
seed or pre-chill 3 weeks prior to
planting
http://www.smmflowers.org/mobile/species/Amorpha_cal
ifornica_californica.htm

© Project SOUND
 Texture: most
 pH: any local [6.0-8.0]
 Light:
 Needs some shade; light
shade to quite shady
 Water:
 Winter: needs good winter rains
 Summer: best with some
summer water – Zone 2 probably
optimal for appearance
 Other: either difficult or easy –
needs the right spot. Easy to
prune or shape.
©2004 Aaron Schusteff

© Project SOUND
False indigo: shade
 Good choice in high or dappled shade
under trees; woodsy appearance
 To provide Dogface habitat
 Back of bed shrub – north-facing
 Large containers; espaliers
 In a scented garden
http://mamba.bio.uci.edu/~pjbryant/biodiv/plants/Fabaceae/Amorpha%20cali
fornica.htm
http://www.smmflowers.org/mobile/species/Amorpha_californica_californica.htm http://wemoss.org/images/jul07/amorpha_nana/

The genus Philadelphus (mock-orange)
 In Hydrangeaceae family with Carpenteria,
Fendlera and Whipplea modesta
 ~60 species of shrubs from North
America, Central America, Asia and
southeast Europe.
 They are named "mock-orange" because
the flowers: look somewhat similar to
those of oranges and lemons; smell of
orange flowers and jasmine.
 This classic and easy-to-grow hollow-
branched shrub was used by the Turks to
make pipes.
 Its Latin name means “brotherly love” and
its orange-blossomlike fragrance has
enhanced teas, perfumes, and many a
garden.
© Project SOUND
https://thedahliapapers.com/2016/07/07/parham-a-series-of-exquisite-
shocks-for-my-plant-palette/

© Project SOUND
*Littleleaf mock orange – Philadelphus microphyllus
Margaret Williams, hosted by the USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

© Project SOUND
*Littleleaf mock orange – Philadelphus microphyllus
http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/eflora/eflora
_display.php?tid=37696
 Southwestern deserts from CO to TX, CA, northern
Mexico
 Desert Mountains (White and Inyo Mountains); Mojave
Desert; Peninsular Ranges; Sierra Nevada East
 Arid rocky slopes, cliffs, pinyon-juniper, coniferous
woods.
 Introduced by Prof. Sargent to Britain about 1883

© Project SOUND
Shrubby Littleleaf mock orange
 Size:
 3-6 ft tall
 3-6 ft wide
 Growth form:
 Winter-deciduous woody shrub
 Multi-stemmed
 Mounded to more upright shape
(in sunnier locations); taller and
more vine-like in shade
 Older bark gray
 Moderate growth rate
 Foliage:
 Simple, opposite, rounded leaves
 Nice color, texture
©2015 Steve Matson

© Project SOUND
Flowers are fantastic
 Blooms: in spring – March-May;
often April in lowland S. CA
 Flowers:
 Look somewhat like a small,
white rose w/ 4 petals –
brighten up a dark garden
 Plants may be covered in
blossoms – like an orange
 Very pleasant, sweet aroma
 Good bee and butterfly habitat
plant
 Flowers arise from past year’s
growth
http://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PHMI4

© Project SOUND
Tough survivor
 Soils:
 Texture: most garden soils, except
those that are very poorly draining
(berm if needed)
 pH: any local
 Light:
 Sun to part-shade; some afternoon
shade in most gardens
 Water:
 Winter: needs regular water;
supplement if needed
 Summer: deep water 2x/mo. first year;
then occasional deep summer water
(Water Zone 2 probably best)
 Fertilizer: fine with 1-2 doses of half-
strength fertilizer during growing season
 Other: prune to shape after flowering
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Philadelphus_mi
crophyllus_4.jpg

© Project SOUND
Philadelphus:
informal to formal
 Background, foundation or hedge
shrub; informal or pruned/hedged
 Accent plant; espalier
 As an attractive pot plant
https://nargs.org/forum/californian-shrubs
http://galina-dubovaya.ucoz.ru/photo/5-0-535-3
https://nargs.org/forum/californian-shrubs

Philadelphus microphyllus
'Desert Snow'
 4-6 feet high & wide
 Small, narrow, dark green to
greyish green leaves, paler
beneath.
 Flowers pure white; ‘fragrance
suggests a mixture of grape and
cinnamon candies’
 Sun, most soils; moderate to
occasional water
 Available at Tree of Life,
Suncrest Growers
© Project SOUND

Would Philadelphus microphyllus work as
an espalier for us?
© Project SOUND
 Usual tests for appropriateness: soil,
light, water
 Appropriate size for space (smaller
trees/shrubs for smaller gardens)
espaliers) – with pruning
bent for at least a few months when
young) – but P. lewisii may be more

© Project SOUND
Mock Orange: a large
deciduous shrub
 Winter deciduous
 Size:
 usually 4-8 ft tall; can be taller,
particularly in shady sites
 8-10 ft wide
 Growth form:
 Naturally a loose, informal shrub
with down-curving, ‘fountain-like’
branches
 Can be pruned to be much more
dense: hedge
 Foliage: simple; lovely woodsy green
(reminds you of OR woods)
 Roots: will spread, particularly with
regular water – may want to contain
 Quick-growing
http://www.baynatives.com/plants/Philadelphus-lewisii/

© Project SOUND
Mock Orange has always been grown for
it’s wonderful flowers
 Blooms: usually May to July; long
bloom period with hundreds of
blooms
 Flowers:
 Showy, white in clusters
 Very intense fragrance like that of
orange blossoms
 Fragrance will perfume entire yard;
may want to plant back in garden
 Bee pollinated: a great plant for
native bee pollinators
 Seeds: relatively large; can
propagate from seed (needs a cold
treatment – stratification – for best
germination)
© 2003 Christopher L. Christie
Mock Orange is the Idaho state
flower

© Project SOUND
Mock Orange is very easy to grow -
 Soils: literally any soil, even clay and
alkali soils
 Light:
 best flowering and form in full sun;
 bright/dappled shade is ok (particularly
in very hot gardens)
 Water:
 Winter: anything goes; even takes
some winter flooding
 Summer:
 Does best with moderate to regular
water; every other week as needed
in summer
 Fairly drought tolerate – but will
lose leaves
 Fertilizer: none needed; organic
mulches probably a good idea
http://www.cwnp.org/photopgs/pdoc/phlewisii.html

Mock orange is very adaptable in gardens
© Project SOUND
http://wwwrockrose.blogspot.com/2010/0
4/poppy-frenzy.html
http://lalows.blogspot.com/2015/07/7-up-and-100.html https://www.pinterest.com/pin/4539488
37416322304/

Philadelphus lewisii
'Marjorie Schmidt'
 ‘This selection is known for its
showy display’ – larger and more
abundant flowers
 Selected by Roger Raiche and Ron
Lutsko along Route 36 west of Red
Bluff, in Shasta County.
 6-10' H x 6-10' W
 Sun or light shade with moderate
water
 Available at TPF
© Project SOUND
http://www.mostlynatives.com/plants/philadelphus-lewisii-marjorie-schmidt
https://www.forestfarm.com/trees-shrubs/shrubs?genus=573

Philadelphus lewisii
'Goose Creek'
 Abundant white flowers with
double petals
 Good hedge plant
 6-10' H x 6-10' W
 Fast growth
 Adaptable to most garden
soils
 Full to part sun
 Occasional to moderate water
© Project SOUND
http://www.mostlynatives.com/plants/philadelphus-lewisii-goose-creek

Espalier is a combination
of art & science
 Choosing plants that have
attractive attributes:
 Foliage
 Flowers/fruits
 Aroma
 Fitting the plants natural
growth habit to the
appropriate espalier
design
 Pruning to achieve an
attractive accent – lots of
choices along the way
© Project SOUND
https://www.pinterest.com/pi
n/521713938053698320/

Separating the hot tub
and dining areas
Want some privacy, but how much?
© Project SOUND
https://za.pinterest.com/pin/409827634820431625/

Must espaliers be grown against a wall or fence?
 As long as they are provided with
support, espaliers can be grown
almost anywhere
 Traditionally used as ‘fences’ to let
air, light and views through
© Project SOUND
http://newzamok.com/belgian-fence-espalier/
Belgian Fence espalier
http://www.thelovelyplants.com/10-amazing-examples-of-espalier-tree-art/
Free-standing pleachedhttps://www.tripadvisor.com/LocationPhotoDirectLink-
g499616-d2236601-i92827048-Standen-
East_Grinstead_West_Sussex_England.html

Options for a narrow
privacy ‘screen’
 Hardscape only: wall, fences, other
 Large containers (with or without
plants)
 Planted screen with vines
 Planted screen with espalier
 Narrow hedge
© Project SOUND
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/476537204302491396/https://www.pinterest.com/pin/5348728
93225871024/
https://www.pinterest.com/explore/backyard-
privacy/

Hedge/espalier/pot: the support structure
depends on your choice
© Project SOUND
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/351280839662
863685/
https://www.pinterest.com/fdsminnesota/int
erior-planters/

We’ve spoken before about growing
currants and gooseberries in large pots
© Project SOUND
http://bhfnursery.com/?attachment_id=4471
http://oregonstate.edu/dept/ldplants/risa4.htm
But most people don’t realize just how
adaptable native currants and
gooseberries can be.

© Project SOUND
https://brendenstudio.wordpress.com/tag/black-huckleberry/
http://weetrees.co.uk/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=7&t=2817
http://www.dependens.nl/collectie-en-borders

Currants & gooseberries (Ribes) also make good
smaller espaliers
© Project SOUNDhttp://www.pacifichorticulture.org/articles/a-currant-affair/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/eastbaywilds/4492039839/

And here’s where the science of espalier comes in
© Project SOUND
Wand-like, spreading currants
Shrub-like currants/gooseberries
These are the ones you
want for narrow hedges,
containers, even most
espaliers

* Pink Currant - Ribes sanguineum var. glutinosum
© Project SOUNDhttp://www.laspilitas.com/groups/ribes_currant_gooseberry/Ribes_currants_of_california.html
http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/cgi-bin/get_JM_treatment.pl?4450,4451,4489,4490
Introduced in horticultural trade by
Theodore Payne

© Project SOUND
Pink-flowered Currants make nice shrubs
 Size: 4-7 ft tall; 3-6 ft wide
 Open branch pattern – branches
are attractive red-brown when
young
 No prickles/spines
 Grow at moderate rate; several
ft./year at first
 Foliage: fragrant, attractive,
drought-deciduous

© Project SOUND
Pink Currant: good habitat
in a pretty package
 Showy flowers
 Early: winter to spring
 Cluster of bell-shaped flowers on
drooping stalks
 Fragrant!!
 Provide early nectar source for:
 Hummingbirds
 Butterflies
 Bees & other pollinators
 Sticky Purple berries
 Edible – raw or cooked
 Food for many birds (Dark-eyed
Junco, Quail, Thrushes, Robins,
Finches, Towhees and Jays)

© Project SOUND
Pink-flowered Currant – nice for shade
 Light: full sun only on coast; part-
shade to full shade – does fine
under trees!!
 Soils: any texture & pH; well-
drained soils best
 Water:
 need to water to establish; after
that, cut back water in summer
 Can give some summer water to
keep it green; but beware of
tendency to fungal infections
 Nutrients: low needs, but may
benefit from an organic mulch
 Low maintenance – prune
occasionally (when dormant) to
shape and encourage flowering

© Project SOUND
Much garden potential
http://www.sodininkas.com/galerija/index.php/Agrastiniai-Grossulariaceae/Raudon-
iedis-serbentas-Ribes-sanguineum/Ribes-sanguineum-krumas-zydi https://davisla.wordpress.com/2011/03/3
0/plant-of-the-week-ribes-sanguineum/
http://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/ribes-sanguineum

Ribes sanguineum: many nice cultivars
 Ribes sanguineum var. glutinosum
 ‘Claremont’
 ‘Heart’s Delight’
 ‘Spring Showers’
 ‘Tranquillon Ridge’
 Ribes sanguineum var. sanguineum
 ‘Barrie Coate’
 ‘King Edward VII’
 ‘Pulborough Scarlet’
© Project SOUND
http://www.rainyside.com/plant_gallery/shrubs/Ribes_sanguineumClaremont.html
Ribes sanguineum var.
glutinosum
‘Claremont’
https://manzanitamania.wordpress.com/tag/pink-flowers/

Ribes sanguineum var
sanguineum ‘Barrie Coate’
© Project SOUND
http://soquelnursery.com/shrubs_ribes_westringia.html
http://www.flickriver.com/photos/eastbaywilds/sets/72157625902415111/
http://www.yerbabuenanursery.com/images/botimages/big/pink/0226_3.jpg
Very bright pink
flowers

Shrub, hedge or espalier – it’s all in the
pruning
© Project SOUND
https://davisla.wordpress.com/2011/03/3
0/plant-of-the-week-ribes-sanguineum/
http://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/ribes-sanguineum

© Project SOUND
Cuts that increase the number of new
outer branches: Tip-pruning and shearing
 Tip-pruning (pinching) involves
removal of the growing tip;
stimulating the growth of lateral
branches
 Shearing (hedging; heading back)
 A form of heading that makes no
attempt to cut back to a bud.
 Because plants chosen for
shearing typically have many
lateral buds close together, you'll
usually end up cutting near a bud.
 Shearing stimulates many buds to
produce new growth - so you'll be
repeating the job regularly after
you start.
http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=howTo&p=LawnGarden/PruningPlants

Uses in pruning shrubs and
hedges (& some espaliers)
© Project SOUND
 Formally pruned shrubs & hedges
 Some espaliers used as dense screens or
hedges
 We’ll come back to hedging next month
http://www.pinnacletree.ca/Hedge-Pruning---Removal.htm

Shrubby currants
© Project SOUND
https://herbidacious.wordpress.com/2012/05/06/current-fans/
https://herbidacious.wordpress.com/2015/08/21/trained-fruit-at-west-dean-gardens/
http://oregonstate.edu/dept/ldplants/risa4.htm
Which look best
suits our needs
for a privacy
screen?

Ribes malvaceum vs.
R. sanguineum
 Chaparral currant:
 Grows in chaparral & oak
woodlands, including in S. CA
 Blooms earlier
 Is more sun and drought tolerant
than the popular pink flowering
currant, Ribes sanguineum
glutinosum.
 In our gardens, it is more
vigorous and hardy
© Project SOUND
Ribes malvaceaum
Ribes sanguineum
https://baynature.org/2014/02/13/wildflowers-coping-drought/

Chaparral currrant – Ribes malvaceum
http://www.santabarbarahikes.com/flowers/index.php?action=show_item&id=42&search=

Ribes malvaceum : two varieties
 Coast Ranges from Marin to Los Angeles
counties – mostly a North/Central CA
 Chaparral, oak woodland;
© Project SOUND
http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/eflora/eflora_display.php
?tid=65160
var. malvaceaum
var. viridifoleum
 Los Angeles co. (San Gabriels; Santa Monica
mtns) south to Baja
 Chaparral, oak woodland;
var. malvaceaum
var. viridifoleum
http://www.calflora.net/floweringplantphotogalleries/plac
eritacanyon/placeritacanyon.html

© Project SOUND
Chaparral currant
 Size:
 6-8 ft tall
 6-8 ft wide
 Growth form:
 Mounded shrub
 Rather loose, open habit,
particularly in shade
 Reddish bark
 Foliage:
 Medium green
 Typical shape for currant
 Drought-deciduous; green until
fall with a little water
http://nathistoc.bio.uci.edu/plants/Grossulariaceae/Ribes%20malvaceum.htm
http://www.smmflowers.org/mobile/species/Ribes_malvaceum.htm

© Project SOUND
http://www.mountainwatch.org/why-natives/
http://www.laspilitas.com/groups/ribes_currant_gooseberry/Ribes_currants_of_californi
a.html

© Project SOUND
 Texture: any local
 pH: any local
 Light: full sun to part-shade;
some afternoon shade for best
appearance
 Water:
 Winter: adequate
 Summer: infrequent, deep
water once established
(Water Zone 1-2 to 2)
 Fertilizer: needs none in ground;
yearly dose of ½ strength in
containers
 Other: organic mulch
recommended
http://back40feet.blogspot.com/2008/04/spring-in-garden-of-my-guru.html

Ribes in part-shade –
perfect for espalier
 Part-woody – can shape while
still flexible
 Open habit
 Fall deciduous – time to do
maintenance
© Project SOUND

Chaparral Currant
– fabulous cultivars
 Var. malvaceum
 ‘Montara Rose’
 ‘Dancing Tassels’
 ‘Wunderlich’
 Var viridifolium
 ‘Ortega Beauty’

Ribes malvaceum var.
malvaceum ‘Montara Rose’
 6 by 6 foot shrub
 Gorgeous clusters of deep
pink flowers, Jan-Apr
 Edible currants (humans or
birds)
 Full sun to light shade and
occasional water.
 In a hot dry spot, it will drop
its leaves in midsummer
© Project SOUNDhttp://www.yerbabuenanursery.com/viewplant.php?pid=621

malvaceum ‘Dancing Tassels’
© Project SOUND
 Selection by Rancho Santa Ana
Botanic Garden from San Clemente
Island.
 6-8 ft. tall and wide
 Winter/spring blooms over a long
period
 Long dangling flower clusters
 Fragrant foliage, peeling red-brown
bark, clusters of blue-black berries
 Full sun to part-shade; little to no
water once established.
https://manzanitamania.wordpress.com/tag/pink-flowers/

viridifolium ‘Ortega Beauty’
© Project SOUND
 6-8 ft tall & wide
 From coastal mountains of S.
CA; intro’d by Nevin Smith
 Large, very bright/dark pink
flowers – winter/spring
 Attractive reddish brown,
peeling bark and large,
resinous dark green leaves.
 Best in part-shade; occasional
water
http://nathistoc.bio.uci.edu/plants/Grossulariaceae/Ribes%20malvaceum.htm

What we’ve done today
 We’ve:
 Learned about several ways to use
native and non-native plants in
narrow spaces
 Learned how to evaluate natives
for their ‘espalierability’
 Seen that espalier is both an art
and a science
 Explored both formal and informal
forms of espalier – and how
they’re created
 Learned a few trick for making an
area seem smaller
© Project SOUND
http://www.realmensow.co.uk/?p=3168

Along the way we’ve:
 Learned to appreciate native
plant’s flexibility
 Seen some inspiring photos
 We’ll come back to the dining
(and other) areas next month
© Project SOUND
http://dargan.com/blending-design-shapes-into-outdoor-seating-areas/

More resources on espalier
 http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/MG/MG27300.pdf
 https://deepgreenpermaculture.com/diy-
instructions/espalier-supporttrellis/
 https://www.starkbros.com/growing-guide/article/espalier-
fruit-trees
© Project SOUND

2017 Season – Small is Beautiful: Native
Habitats in Smaller Gardens
© Project SOUND
Next month: Birds on a (Space) Budget

Growing Citrus Espalier for Edible Landscaping

Empfohlen

Empfohlen

Weitere ähnliche Inhalte

Was ist angesagt?

Was ist angesagt? (20)

Andere mochten auch

Andere mochten auch (20)

Ähnlich wie Growing Citrus Espalier for Edible Landscaping

Ähnlich wie Growing Citrus Espalier for Edible Landscaping (20)

Mehr von cvadheim

Mehr von cvadheim (20)

Kürzlich hochgeladen

Kürzlich hochgeladen (20)

Growing Citrus Espalier for Edible Landscaping