‘Hands On’ Fruit Care Workshop Series

A series of workshops on fruit production and care is scheduled to begin March 1st in Columbia, MO and offered by Jim Quinn, University of Missouri Horticulture Specialist for the Central Missouri Region.

Fruit tree pruning - Friday, March 1st at 4 pm

Details: The following fully developed fruit trees will be featured ½ side fully pruned, the other side not pruned - apple (1), plum (2), and pear (2). Pruning of a 2 year old peach, 5 year old peach and a 7 year old apple tree will also be reviewed. Application of dormant oil will be discussed and other pest control tactics in the dormant season. Site selection, propagation material and planting preparation will be reviewed. At least one new tree will be planted (cherry and peach). Bring a hand pruners to try pruning yourself & dress accordingly.

Berries and organic fruit gardening - Friday, March 15th at 4 to 6:30 pm

Details: Pruning of raspberries, blueberries, blackberries & grapes. Winter mulch removal of a strawberry planting. Uncovering of fig from winter protection.  Site selection of paw paw trees and a zone 7 persimmon tree; including minor pruning of the latter.  Site selection and planting of more gooseberries, received by mail order, which will be removed from its shipping container and planted. Pest control will be reviewed with a discussion of how to cultivate these organically. Bring a hand pruners to try pruning yourself & dress accordingly. A leprechaun will reveal a mystery fruit crop and plant it.

Disease and insect pest control of fruit plantings - Friday, April 5th at 4 pm

Details: Several sprayer models will be discussed and demonstrated. Fungicide and bactericide products will be reviewed, with emphasis on their varying effectiveness on the different diseases. The insecticides available to homeowners and the critical time for applying will be covered. Emphasis will be on fruit trees and grapes. Organic pesticides will not be addressed, as they will be reviewed in the berry session. Fruit thinning of peaches and apples will be demonstrated (if possible) or discussed. Dress accordingly.

A Mid Summer Fruit Review - Wednesday, June 26th at 4 pm

Details: A walk around the garden will feature fruit development or success with crop (e.g. strawberries), disease symptoms and insect damage, control (or lack of) of diseases and insect pests, grape skirt pruning, strawberry renovation, etc. There will be NO snacks or refreshments provided for this class…..but we hope to eat some fruit (e.g. raspberries).

Registration – the workshops will take place at 719 West Broadway, Columbia.  Class size is limited to 25 and preregistration with payment is required.  Handouts that include some MU Publications will be provided. If you register for the 3 class series a complimentary copy of the booklet ’Midwest Home Fruit Production Guide’ (a $20 value) will be included.  Complimentary snack & beverage is included.

 

Cost: $25 per class.  All classes are 2 hours (unless otherwise noted).  Check payable to: University of MO Extension Council and mail to 1012 North Hwy UU, Columbia, MO 65203.