Images
Naming
Full name: Belgian fence project
Popular name:
‘Belgian fence’
Synonym:
‘Belgian fence’, Y series shapes, V series shapes
Nickname:
Historical name:
Alternative name:
pattern of overlapping Y shapes, pattern of overlapping V shapes
Description
The Belgian Fence consists of a series of Y-cords in which the framework branches are guided at an angle of 45 degrees. This creates a diamond-shaped pattern / diamond pattern.
This is an aesthetically pleasing espalier shape that is much appreciated by everyone, especially with a stone fruit wall as a backdrop.
The crossings do have some disadvantages:
- Abrasions
In a windy location, abrasions can occur where the branches cross each other. - lower production
In a cross-over, only one of the two framework branches can bear fruiting wood. Due to the large number of cross-overs, the Y-shape is therefore less productive.
- Abrasions
The Belgian Fence was formerly used a lot as a windbreak (full wind control), in unfavourable places. The lower production was less important.
A ‘double-walled’ Belgian Fence can be created by replacing the Y shapes with U shapes: plant the trees rotated 90 degrees (so with the T junction perpendicular to the direction of travel), lead the rear frame branches diagonally to the top left and the front ones diagonally to the top right. This double variant can be used as a full wind deflector (freestanding), for example as a privacy screen or wind screen.
Opinion
Fairly easy to grow and maintain.
To get a neat result, careful alignment of the trees when planting is essential. Precisely because of the very symmetrical pattern, any irregularity (in mutual planting distance or height at which the Y split begins) detracts from the appearance.
It is advisable to grow the Y forms on a mother bed for the first 1-2 years, with more trees than will eventually be needed. Remove Y forms that show shape deviations and plant only the best specimens at the final location.
Less productive because of the crossbreeding.
Everyone loves this espalier shape!
[mks_icon icon=”fa-thumbs-up” color=”#00ff00″ type=”fa”]Tip:
- To get a nice symmetrical image, you must measure the planting distance accurately and ensure that the Y-junction of all trees is at exactly the same height.
- You can prevent chafing by allowing the branches to grow together (grafting). An additional advantage of this is that the growth force is more evenly distributed over the trees.
