Are you looking to add a touch of elegance and productivity to your garden? Stepover apple and pear trees might be the perfect solution. These low-growing fruit trees are trained to grow horizontally, making them an ideal choice for gardeners with limited space or those seeking a unique aesthetic.
Stepovers are ideal for planting at the front of ornamental borders and vegetable plots to form a low edging that is both attractive and productive. Cultivated since Victorian times, they are basically one tier espaliers that are low enough to simply ‘step over’ where necessary. Stepovers are supplied in a ‘Y’ shape with two main shoots that can be trained out in opposite directions at about 45-60cm (18-24in) above the ground. On receipt you will need to tie the arms down gradually (in several stages) to a horizontal supporting framework (not supplied). Allow 2.4-3.5m (8-12ft) total spread per tree. Trees are available from late November to late April.
What are stepover fruit trees?
Stepover fruit trees have been grown since Victorian times and are perfect for creating attractive borders in your garden. These trees are trained to grow at a height that you can literally ‘step over’. They’re an excellent way to maximise fruit production in small spaces and add structure to your garden design.
The appeal of stepover apple trees
Stepover apple trees are particularly popular among UK gardeners. They offer several advantages:
- Space-saving: Ideal for small gardens or allotments.
- Decorative: Create beautiful edible borders.
- Easy maintenance: Pruning and harvesting are simplified due to their low height.
- Productive: Despite their size, they can yield a bountiful harvest.
Choosing your stepover apple tree
We offer a wide variety of stepover apple trees for sale in the UK. From classic cookers like ‘Bramley’s Seedling’ to popular dessert apples such as ‘Cox’ and ‘Discovery’, you’re sure to find a variety that suits your taste and growing conditions.
Stepover pear trees: a delightful alternative
While apple trees are the most common choice for stepovers, don’t overlook the charm of stepover pear trees. These can produce delicious fruits while adding diversity to your fruit garden.
Caring for your stepover fruit trees
Stepover trees require regular pruning to maintain their distinctive shape. However, their low height makes this task much easier than with standard fruit trees. They’re also ideal for those who struggle with mobility, as all maintenance and harvesting can be done at a comfortable height.
Get started with stepover fruit trees
Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a novice, stepover apple and pear trees offer a unique and rewarding way to grow fruit. Browse our selection and transform your garden with these charming, space-saving trees. With proper care, your stepover fruit trees will provide you with delicious homegrown apples and pears for years to come.
Remember, at Pomona Fruits, we’re here to help you choose the perfect stepover fruit trees for your garden.
Don’t forget to include a Gripple Wire Tensioning Kit on your order, the easy way to support stepover fruit trees. For better establishment we strongly advise using Rootgrow when planting (as recommended in RHS planting guidelines).
Carriage & packing charges
Our standard delivery charge to mainland UK is £9.95. Some items (where stated) are p&p inclusive. If you are only ordering items that are p&p inclusive, the standard delivery charge does not apply.
Some deliveries to the Scottish Islands, parts of Scotland, the Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Scily Isles may incur surcharges. If a surcharge is applicable, you may not be able to complete your order online. Please telephone us on 01255 440410 for a delivery quotation.
We regret that due to Brexit we are no longer able to deliver to Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and the rest of Europe.
Despatch Dates
Fruit trees, soft fruit bushes, ornamental trees & hedging (bare root)
Fruit trees & soft fruit bushes (pot grown)
Cell Grown Raspberries
Cell grown raspberries are available from mid/late May to late July and will usually be despatched within 14 days.
Strawberry plants (Runners)
Vegetable Plants
Vegetable plants are available from mid May to late July. As a very rough guide, plants ordered before the end of April will usually be despatched by late May. Plants ordered after May will usually be despatched by early June.
Asparagus crowns
Asparagus crowns will be despatched from April to late May. Orders placed during this period will be despatched within 28 days.
Hardware
Biological Controls (Natural Predators) & Bumblebee Hives
Natural Predators and Bumble Bee hives are only despatched at the appropriate time of year (see product description for detailed information). When “in season” they are despatched direct from our supplier in batches on a weekly basis - we send orders to our supplier 12pm Tuesday and they despatch these orders Wednesday the following week. Natural Predators are sent by first class post, bumblebee hives are sent by carrier.