Park to offer Antique Apple and Pear Tree Pruning Workshop

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lake Shore will host a pruning workshop on May 1 at the Schmidt Farmstead in the Port Oneida Rural Historic District, 6 miles north of Glen Arbor on M-22. Turn left onto Basch Road and follow the signs to the workshop site.

The workshop will focus on maintenance of neglected apple and pear trees and how to bring them back into production, and maintain their health. The course will include 1) how to identify and properly remove dead materials from abandoned trees 2) proper pruning of the canopy for optimum maintenance and fruit production, 3) maintaining tree health, 4) how to maintain ground cover under the tree, 5) watering and care of the tree, and 6) equipment safety.

The park is pairing with the Leelanau Conservation District, MSU Northwest Michigan Horticultural Station, Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes, and the County Extension Master Gardener Program to offer this hands-on training workshop. Experts from the county and state offices will provide the technical information and the park will serve as the host for this annual event. This marks the fifth year that these organizations have come together to participate in this event.

The course is set up so participants receive "hands on" training of all techniques. The workshop hours are 1 - 4 p.m. Participants should meet at the Schmidt Farm on Basch Road 6 miles north of Glen Arbor on M-22 turning left on Basch Road and follow the signs. An orientation and introduction will begin at 1 p.m. There is no cost to participants. Tools and materials will be provided. Participants should wear sturdy shoes and gloves. Handouts will be provided. In case of rain, the event will be rescheduled to May 4 at the same time and location.

Workers are not required to be skilled. The purpose of the workshop is to teach the techniques and train homeowners and the interested public how to restore to health and maintain antique apple and pear trees.

Interested parties should contact the park historical architect, Kimberly Mann (231) 326-5135 ext. 501, to sign up for the workshop. Late registration is accepted. Call to notify your intent to attend. To sign up by email: kimberly_mann@nps.gov.

Filed under Farming • Heritage Foods