Beginners Courses Available at Brogdale
Apples & Pears
Restoration Pruning
Winter pruning is most certainly a priority job for anyone who wishes to yield good crops from their apple and pear trees. Whilst this task is vital to ensure a healthy and fruitful tree, it is often set aside due to a lack of knowledge and understanding. To the novice fruit grower it may appear a simple undertaking; however, it is a popular misconception that hacking off a few branches will result in successful pruning.
Pruning of apple trees consists of timing and precision which is applied based on a firm understanding of the theory behind the practice. Understanding the tree forms, different buds and structures starts to prepare the pruner to make decisions on how to best prune the individual tree. For many with overgrown trees, restoration works will be needed to allow the tree to be restored to a manageable size and condition before perfecting the annual maintenance.
Whilst getting the tree established may appear to be the first step, if you are starting from scratch, gaining the knowledge prior to planting will provide a great advantage. Understanding the rootstocks, varieties available, soil conditions and tree forms will ensure the trees most suited to the individual can be chosen.
In short, knowledge is power when aiming to get the most from your fruit trees. Take the time to learn, research and prepare to ensure your trees provide an abundance of delicious healthy fruit year on year.
When it comes to seeking out different varieties the National Fruit Collection at Brogdale in Faversham, Kent is like a treasure chest! The collection is the world’s largest and preserves over 2,200 varieties of apples and over 550 of pear. Varieties dating back to the Roman times stand protected in the orchards, and can be ordered and grafted from the plant centre at Brogdale.
One day or weekend winter pruning courses are available from November through to January at Brogdale and offer both theoretical and practical experience. Bookings can be made through the website and the general courses suit beginners or those with limited knowledge. Advanced pruning can be booked for private groups.
Grafting courses take place in January which is a great opportunity to add a rather unique skill to your horticultural belt. It can get very interesting to start growing multiple varieties onto one rootstock which is sure to impress family and friends when showing off your fruit trees.
For more information on courses at Brogdale please visit www.brogdalecollections.org to contact Brogdale Collections on 01795 536250
