So, I assume you are trying to style your pear espalier in the typical shape which is top-right
- *Yvonne CuthberTson*
The first pair of side branches are typically described as around knee high or 24 inches from the ground on up. You don’t want them too low since low-hanging fruits are vulnerable to animal predation and splashed up diseases. Also always be aware of where the graft joint is. Since you don’t want the rootstock to steal nutrients or try to take over.
After removing the bottom two side branches, which I would do now before the fungal season hits, the question is whether the bottom wire is where you need them to be for the NEW bottom pair of branches. Also, I’m finding that thin bamboo canes are invaluable — ones typically sold in 3-4 ft range 3/8-1/2” d maybe? — for training the young, flexible branches to stay straight and to tie them down without injury. Tie the branch with soft ties to the bamboo cane, then tie the bamboo cane down to the wire or other secure support.
The angle can be horizontal to the ground as pictured or at a desired 45 or lower angle but you want to match them for best appearance. Note that lowering the branch tip triggers the plant hormones to bloom and fruit more readily and grow less vigorously.
