Bending the Branches of an Apple Tree can have many benefits.

If you have limited space, or if previously planted apple trees are now too close, a good way to improve the tree is by gradually bending the main framework branches down towards the ground! This is more easily accomplished with a younger tree. However it can be done by using the newer growth on older trees and gradually discarding the upright branches.

Other than giving you extra space, it can also dramatically improve the fruit yield per tree over time. This is because it shifts the balance of the tree away from producing vegetative growth, to fruit-bearing growth. A single specimen tree can also look very artistic and ornamental if the branches are trained downwards.

Branches can be gradually trained downwards on apple trees by tying weights to the end of selected stems. These weights can simply be a half or a whole brick! Coloured bottles filled with water can also do the trick - and add a bit of interest to the tree! (Yuk!)

After the tree has been trained this way, then pruning requirements are no different to that of an upright tree. Obviously, you will need to cut off the new uprights back to a point of three four inches from the main branch.

The Apples are easier to harvest - being easier to reach, and you can keep a look out more readily for spoiling pests and diseases.