DECATUR, Ill. – One of the keys to producing fruits in your home orchard or garden is yearly pruning during the dormant season. Proper pruning can increase fruit quality, reduce the occurrence of diseases and improve plant longevity, but many people are nervous about pruning or too heavy-handed with the clippers.

This March, University of Illinois Extension is providing a workshop with hands-on pruning practice. Local Foods Extension Educator Ryan Pankau will demonstrate proper techniques for pruning a variety of woody plants including shrubs, fruit trees and small shade trees.

The workshop is free and will be 1 to 3 p.m. Friday, March 6 at the Crossing Healthcare orchard, 320 E. Central Ave., Decatur. Workshop space is limited. Participants should sign up by March 5 online or by calling the Macon County Extension Office at (217) 877-6042. For more information, contact Beth Miglin at the Extension office or by email.

This is a hands-on, outdoor workshop. Participants should wear suitable clothing including garden gloves and bring pruning tools such as loppers, hand pruners or hand shears if possible. Continuing education hours are available for Master Gardeners.

The Macon County Master Gardeners are volunteers trained by University of Illinois Extension. Master Gardeners fulfill their mission of Helping Others Learn to Grow by volunteering their time and horticulture skills through community gardening projects and educational outreach. Learn more on their Facebook page.

Register Online

Contact

Beth Miglin
Program Coordinator, Master Gardeners
Piatt Extension Office
210 S. Market St., Monticello, IL 61856
(217) 762-2191
bmiglin@illinois.edu