I'm trying to find someone to hire to help me plan and plant a Belgian Fence of dwarf M9 apple trees. I've already had two gardeners involved who do not have the appropriate expertise, and I have lost 5 of the 10 trees that were planted this spring. Although I've done quite a bit of reading, I'm unsure whether to start from scratch or add in some one-year old trees to those that are there. Also need coaching re the pruning. Any referrals?? Barb
Plant the M9 18 inches apart and head off at 12". As it starts to sprout, pick two sprouts in a V shape and rub off the rest. Poke bamboo sticks in the ground forming a V and wire the sprouts to it with green wire. Cut off any laterals that try to grow from the two branches and always support them aiming to get them as long as possible the first year. As you get to the top of the bamboo sticks, wire bamboo extensions onto them, supporting the top at about 5' with a single wire stretched between posts. Wire the sticks together where they cross. That winter, paint the bare trees white, as they are very prone to sunburn, especially the trunk down low. The second year, prune any laterals that try to sprout at 3 leaves. As it tries to re-grow, rub off any new growth by late August; this will cause it to set a fruit bud. It should start bearing the second year and give lots by the 3rd. Keep pruning the laterals back is the main maintenance you'll need. Applenut
