So how hard is it to have an espalier apple tree?

[LucasNorthCanSpookMeAnytime]

I really want an apple tree against my fence. It gets some sun but is in shade for part of the day. It needs to be flat against the wall so I think I need an espalier? Can you buy trees already trained into this shape or do you have to train them yourself? I have absolutely no gardening skills whatsoever and I don't want to spend a lot of time on looking after it. Is this possible?!

You can buy them already done but they are quite expensive. I have one that is red apples on one side and green on the other. I get a good crop from it.

I don't think it is hard to train your own.

Thanks, trice. 2 different colours - that must be two trees, yes?

it's dead easy to espalier an apple (or pear). Just get a maiden [tree...] - not now, but come november/december. Plant it properly, then after a year start taking branches and running them along wire. Prune every other shoot you don't want, and it'll concentrate on growing where you do want. Used to spend ten minutes after coming home prunning - very relaxing.

It'll take three years and you'll get loads of fruit - but you will need two compatible pollinators.

Pears take even longer - but are nicer.

Thank you, SonT, very helpful! But oh, I thought you could buy a self-pollinating tree?