(Photo: Bridget Williamson)

Releasing and pruning wild apple trees can keep them healthy and result in greater fruit production for use by a wide variety of wildlife. This basic introduction to releasing and pruning wild apple trees will be led by Nigel Manley, director of The Rocks.

Manley has been pruning apple trees for over 30 years and this outdoor workshop will show how to make a pruning cut, how much to take off a tree and “just where to start.” “It is often difficult to simply see how to start in the pruning process” says Manley.

This pruning demonstration is designed to build up courage for beginning pruner. Manley will bring pruning equipment for attendees to try out as well as teaching some of the basic ideas of pruning apple trees and safety while doing so.

This program will be held entirely outdoors, and participants are encouraged to try out demonstrated techniques on the property's fruit trees. Warm layers, gloves, winter footwear, and boot traction are highly recommended.

REGISTER: This workshop is free for Forest Society members, $20 for non-members. Pre-registration is required. No experience required. (Registration will close on March 18 at noon or when the spaces have been filled).

(Not sure if you are an active member or want to join? Email Tina Ripley at tripley@forestsociety.org to help. Or, you can renew or purchase a membership online and then come back to this page.)

LOCATION: Meet in the main parking lot behind the Carriage Barn at The Rocks, 113 Glessner Road, Bethlehem NH