Arboretum to offer pruning workshops
This winter the Polly Hill Arboretum will offer two pruning workshops; one for blueberries and one for apples. Learn how proper pruning can stimulate growth to insure a bumper crop of fruit, according to a press release. The primary purpose of pruning is to increase sunlight penetration, remove less productive wood, and shape the crown into an efficient, stable form.
On Saturday, February 2, Susan Murphy, proprietor of Murphy Blueberry Farm in Chilmark, will host a hands-on workshop in the technique of pruning blueberries on both mature plants and younger shrubs.
On Saturday, March 9, join apple expert John Bunker of Fedco Trees in Waterville, Maine, for an apple tree pruning workshop. Find out how to give an old tree new life and what kind of yearly pruning maintenance will keep your fruit trees producing year after year. This workshop begins with a talk on fruit tree pruning then heads outside to a nearby orchard for hands-on pruning. For more information, check pollyhillarboretum.org. To register call 508-693-9426.
Blueberry pruning workshop: Saturday, February 2, 10 am to noon, $25/$20 for PHA members.
Apple pruning workshop: Saturday, March 8, 10 am to 2 pm, $55/$45 for PHA members.