Gaucher Palmet

Basic Shape

Description

The Gaucher palmet is an improved Verrier Palmet.

Features:

two-dimensional espalier shape with parallel framework branches that lie in one flat plane
each branch ends in a U shape (minimum 2 U shapes)
- With an even number of U shapes (2, 4, 6, …) the U shapes are at the same height. [^1]
- With an odd number of U shapes (3, 5, …), the U shapes are at the same height or are stepped above each other. [^2]
- even number of framework branches (that is inherent to U shapes!)
fruitwood is grown short on the stem branch

This espalier fruit form is named after its inventor: Nicholas Gaucher (18646-1911), a German Tree grower.

[mks_icon icon=”fa-thumbs-up” color=”#009900″ type=”fa”] For additional info see main article: Palmette.

[^1]: The Gaucher Palmet with even number of U-shapes is derived from the Verrier Palmet without a central branch.
[^2]: The Gaucher Palmet with odd number of U-shapes is derived from the Verrier Palmet with a central branch.

Naming

Full name: Gaucher palmette (with … framework branches)

Popular name:

Gaucher palmette (with … U shapes)

Synonym:

Historical name:

Gaucher palmette

Alternative name:

Spelling variants:

Opinion

Difficult to cultivate. The Gaucher Palmet is a complex espalier shape that requires years of planning from the grower. Before cultivation begins, the grower must make a design drawing. The grower must then implement this design purposefully and consistently for years. Design errors in complex palmette shapes are virtually impossible to correct afterwards.

The Gaucher Palmette is difficult to grow and has a long growing phase. Nevertheless, it was used a lot in the past. In the past, Gaucher Palmettes were grown with sometimes 9 U-shapes (18 framework branches)!

The Gaucher Palmet has several important advantages over the Verrier Palmet:

in growing phase
- shorter growing period
in production phase
- fewer horizontal parts [^2] This is important because horizontal branches are naturally less productive and also require more pruning than vertical branches. Some growers therefore choose to keep the horizontal parts of framework branches completely bare (by pruning with a flat cut).
- growth force somewhat better distributed over the tree The sap flow is better distributed due to the U-shaped framework branches. The U-shapes are somewhat easier to keep in balance (require less maintenance pruning) than the framework branches of a Verrier Palmet.
- slightly higher production The Gaucher Palmet lacks the ‘single’ heart branch. The U-shaped framework branches produce slightly more flowers (and fruits).

Maintenance is quite difficult, but easier than with other complex espalier fruit shapes.

Recommended for those who want a complex espalier shape. Because of the U shapes this espalier shape often works better than the Candelabrum Palmette.

[mks_icon icon=”fa-lightbulb-o” color=”#0000ff” type=”fa”] Tip: It is advisable to graft a variety with slightly lower growth strength gradually towards the middle of the tree.

Suitable for seed fruits (pear, apple) and stone fruits (peach, apricot).

[mks_icon icon=”fa-thumbs-up” color=”#009900″ type=”fa”] For additional info see main article: Palmette.

[^2] Note: The advantage of the Gaucher Palmet over the Verrier Palmet increases with the number of framework branches.