Winter Fruit Tree Care - Pruning, Soil, Pests and Disease

Part of our "Fruit-Filled Gardens" series! Horticulturalist John Valenzuela is back for our series on the care of small orchards! This hands-on workshop will give participants the skills for winter care of established and stressed trees. In addition to pruning essentials, we will discuss common maintenance issues, organic disease management, and ways to make a garden more tree-friendly. Topics Include: Structural pruning for fruit trees, focusing on established or stressed trees; Cultural practices and fertilization for good health; Basic design principles and considerations for tree placement. After the classroom discussion we'll head out to the Pollinate Farm & Garden orchard for a demonstration of pruning techniques for aesthetics and optimal fruit production. Please bring gloves and hand pruners if available. Dress for rain. ABOUT THE INSTRUCTORS: John Valenzuela is a horticulturist, consultant and educator specializing in fruit trees and home gardens. He is past chairperson for the Golden Gate Chapter of the California Rare Fruit Growers, and the owner of Cornucopia Food Forest Gardens, an educational fruit tree care consultancy. John Heenan is a backyard rare citrus grower who volunteers at the Indian Valley College Organic Farm and Garden fruit tree nursery and orchard in Marin County.