The aim of the day is to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to tackle an orchard that requires significant renovation. You will learn how to assess an orchard – whether you are renovating to control size, improve fruiting or to simply keep veteran trees in good health. The focus will be on apples and pears, as they are the most common trees found in UK orchards.
Teaching will cover how and when to prune and potential problems with older trees, such as pests and disease, nutrition and soil health. Other aspects include understanding the physiological differences between young and old trees, and how this influences their pruning and general management.
Time will be spent outside in the afternoon where some of the principles discussed in the morning will be put into practice. Sylvia will go through the process of renovation pruning using some of the apple and pear trees in the West Dean kitchen garden, where she will visually assess a tree and discuss how to approach pruning through demonstration. Questions are welcome throughout the day.
What students need to bring
- Notebook and pencil
- A camera may be useful
- Clothing suitable for outdoors, including wet weather, as some time will be spent in the walled garden
Available to buy
- Available from shop:
- Notebooks and pencils
Additional information
Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).
Timetable for one day courses
Students should arrive by 9am for registration.
Classes are from 9.15 - 5pm
Lunch is included.
