Commercial Fruit Growers Share Practical Knowledge
Save the dates for this virtual event!
February 9th, 11th, 16th and 18th 2026 | 4:30 PM- 7:30 PM Central Time
The format for this 4- session course includes a mix of single-grower presentations, panel presentations and grower panel discussions with two optional small group moderated breakout sessions. This is a virtual event with a focus on orchards in the Midwest and Northeastern part of the United States.
Schedule
Day 1: Startup and Orchard Design focus on variety and rootstock, site prep, irrigation and trellis/tree support considerations.
Day 2: Pest Management presentation on scouting, pesticide safety, pests of concern in organic orchards, cost and other factors including additional resources.
Day 3: Horticultural Practices, Harvest and Labor instruction on planting trees, orchard floor management and thinning; harvest and post-harvest management and grower experiences with hired labor.
Day 4: Marketing and Overall Summary teaches many aspects of marketing fresh and value-added products with final thoughts from experienced growers and additional resources. This course requires some basic understanding of growing apples; pre-course reading, homework and handouts included with the course.
Speakers
Chris McGuire, Blue Roof Orchard
Rami Aburomia, Atoms to Apples Orchard
Rachel Henderson, Mary Dirty Face Farm
Peter Werts, IPM Institute of North America
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