Winter Pruning with Che Vincent

Would you like to be able to prune your own fruit trees but don't know where to start? Are you a busy person and can't commit to a day course? Then, this short introduction to fruit tree pruning is for you! Come find out how to train a young tree or tame a neglected tree to ensure its longevity and increase production.

While Che is mostly known for his bonsai, his horticultural knowledge and prowess extends to large trees too. Pruning, shaping and understanding how a tree will respond is what Che is all about.

This workshop is not just about theory. It's a hands-on, practical guide to winter fruit tree pruning, designed to optimize your next season's fruiting. You'll be using loppers and secateurs under expert guidance, building your confidence as you go.

We'll be focusing on the pruning techniques for figs, persimmon, feijoa, and apple trees. However, the principles you'll learn can be applied to a wide range of fruit trees, making this workshop beneficial for all fruit tree enthusiasts.

Che will explain the fundamentals of pruning:

• Why pruning is necessary
• Tool use and maintenance
• Deciding on a training system
• When to prune and when best to avoid it
• Identifying fruiting wood
• Thinning cuts vs heading cuts
• Use of pruning cut protectants

For this 2.5-hour session in one of Riverside's orchards, dress according to weather conditions. We recommend wearing sturdy footwear or gumboots.

Please bring your secateurs, loppers, and pruning saw if you have one.

Please note that this workshop is weather-dependent and will be cancelled (or possibly postponed) if wet.

Limited to 12 participants. Bookings are essential. Bookings close Thursday, 11th July at 2pm.

This workshop is proudly sponsored by the Riverside Community Trust. Please contact Tanja (at education@riverside.org.nz) for workshop questions or to ask about sponsorship options.