Our second workshop, ‘An Introduction to Apple Tree Pruning’, took place last Sunday on a very rainy January afternoon. Thankfully, the rain eased just enough for our group to head out into the orchard to learn the basics of apple tree pruning – and most importantly, to practise on real trees.
Together we learnt what to look for first when pruning a tree, before moving on to how to make informed decisions based on the tree itself. We considered where it’s situated, what we want to get from it, and how pruning can improve its long-term health. Drawing on years of experience and knowledge passed down from pruning experts, we also explored why winter pruning is so important. While harvests vary each year due to climate, pests and unpredictable weather, pruning during the winter months gives trees the best possible chance of producing healthy, delicious fruit.
A big thank you to our friends at Flying Horse Lawn for hosting us in their orchard. It was a brilliant opportunity and very much appreciated.
Here’s what some of our participants had to say:
“It was a great workshop. A good balance of theory and practice. I liked the take-home resources – very comprehensive and helpful.”
“Bethan presented the topic very well, with a structured, step-by-step approach during the pruning itself, and plenty of feedback and help along the way. Excellent.”
Our workshops are designed for beginners, seasoned growers wanting to learn something new, and anyone looking to gain practical experience in a welcoming, supportive environment. They’re small, hands-on sessions where you can ask questions, make mistakes, and learn by doing.
Whether you have an allotment, a garden, a patio or balcony, or are involved in a community growing space, we’re here to help you make your food growing a success.
What’s coming up?
We’ve got lots more workshops coming up this year. Our next session is ‘Crop Planning for Early Spring Crops / Successive Sowing’. While it may still feel cold and dark, lighter days are on their way – and with them, our first chance to sow seeds. If you’d like support with what to grow, when to start, and how to keep crops going through spring and summer, this workshop is for you.
Take a look at all our upcoming workshops and join us for another practical, friendly session at Norton Nurseries: https://thefoodworks.org/shop-with-us/events-workshops/
Got any questions? Drop us an email and we’ll be happy to help: farm@thefoodworks.org
