Winter Fruit Tree Pruning Course

This course will be led by Karen Greenwood, the Head Gardener at Botton, and Jan Hoyland, an organic gardening expert, designer, and author. This is a great opportunity to get hands-on experience and learn the techniques that will ensure your fruit trees are healthy, well-balanced, and productive.

We will begin by discussing the theory behind winter pruning. We will cover the fundamentals of growing fruit trees, including fruit varieties, rootstocks, planting, pests, and diseases, before delving into the details of pruning. The course will address both formative pruning of young trees and the maintenance and restoration of mature trees. We will explain the basic techniques before heading outside for a demonstration.

After lunch, we will divide into groups, giving you a chance to practice what you have learned and build your confidence in pruning skills. Hot drinks will be provided throughout the day. Please either bring your own packed lunch or you can enjoy a meal from the café at Botton, which offers a delicious menu of meals and snacks.

Much of this course will take place outdoors, so please dress appropriately for the weather, including wearing gloves and sturdy footwear. If possible, bring your own tools to ensure everyone has a chance to participate. We do have a limited supply of secateurs, loppers, and saws to share, but not enough for everyone.

Your tutors:

Karen Greenwood, MCIHort, is Head Grower at Botton where she is reestablishing fruit and vegetable production with the community. She is an experienced horticulturist, specialising in organic and sustainable growing as well as ornamental horticulture in historic settings. Karen was previously part of an award-winning garden team at English Heritage, working on historic gardens projects at Mount Grace Priory, Richmond Castle, Barnard Castle and Clifford's Tower, York. She is a regular speaker at garden societies on a variety of horticultural topics.

Jan Hoyland is a North Yorkshire based horticulturalist, plantswoman, organic gardening expert, rewilder and permaculture designer. She has worked as a Head Gardener and manager for the National Trust and as Curator at The Yorkshire Arboretum, Castle Howard before setting up her own design and consultancy business. She has decades of experience of working in both public and private gardens, runs gardening workshops on a range of topics and is a published author.

Places are strictly limited, so be sure to book early to avoid disappointment.

Arrive for 10:00 AM- Course running 10:30 AM - 15:00 PM.

Free visitors parking in the centre of the village near the village store.

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Host or Publisher Camphill Village Trust- Botton Village