Saturday 4 & Sunday 5 July 2015, 9.30am-5pm
The essentials of pruning and growing fruit trees and bushes: a weekend course for beginner and experienced gardeners who have (or would like) fruit trees and bushes and would like to know how to properly establish and maintain them.
This course seeks to build skills and knowledge in:
*choosing the right tree/bush/shrub for the right place – site design and selection;
*planting techniques;
*initial after-care for healthy growth;
* growing healthy plants: disease and deficiency identification and prevention;
*general pruning principles and practice – applicable to fruiting and flowering trees, bushes and shrubs;
*specific pruning and planting techniques, including a range of wall/fence training techniques;
*appropriate tools for pruning and plant care;
*propagation techniques – hardwood cuttings;
*an introduction to forest garden design and practice.
The course will combine classroom-based learning with practical training in the Nursery glasshouses and/or at a local allotment site’s fruit garden. Saturday will focus on site and plant selection, planting, care and maintenance, pest and disease management. Sunday will cover pruning theory and practice including a range of trained forms.
Wear sturdy shoes, and all weather gear for outdoor practical sessions. Bring gardening gloves and secateurs for pruning practicals if you have them.
Bring a packed lunch. Tea and coffee facilities are available at the site. The tutors are Marlene Barrett and Sean Hearn from Organiclea.
Course fees: you can book for one or both days. The fee for one day is £60/ £40 / £20 see our course fee guide for details of how concessions apply. Fee for both days is £110 /£50 / £30.
Please specify when you book – Saturday (fruit selection and care), Sunday (pruning) or both days.
Book your place now on our registration page!
