Wild Apple Pruning Workshop

Releasing and pruning wild apple trees can keep them healthy and result in greater fruit production for use by a wide variety of wildlife. This basic introduction to releasing and pruning wild apple trees will be led by Nigel Manley, senior outreach manager of Forest Society North at The Rocks.

Manley has been pruning apple trees for over 30 years and this outdoor workshop will show how to make a pruning cut, how much to take off a tree, and where to start. This pruning demonstration is designed to build up courage for the beginning pruner. Manley will bring pruning equipment for attendees to try out as well as teaching some of the basic ideas of pruning apple trees and safety while doing so.

This program will be held both indoors and outdoors, where participants are encouraged to try out demonstrated techniques on the property's fruit trees. Warm layers, gloves, winter footwear, and boot traction are highly recommended. The morning will be in the classroom, with a break for lunch, and then heading outdoors to apply classroom learning to the old orchard. The program is free for members and $20 for non-members.