Southern IL Fruit Tree Pruning Workshop
Join our Southwestern Illinois Fruit Tree Pruning Workshop with Alexis R. Barnes, Horticulture Educator, to learn how and when to properly prune apple, pear, peach, and cherry trees for healthier growth, stronger structure, and better harvests.
This fruit tree pruning class covers winter pruning techniques, common pruning and training mistakes, proper tool selection, and essential care tips specific to Illinois’ climate and growing conditions. Perfect for backyard growers, homesteaders, beginning orchardists, and homeowners with overgrown or neglected fruit trees, this workshop will teach you how to shape strong trees, improve airflow and sunlight penetration, and increase fruit production season after season.
In this workshop, you will learn how to:
This fruit tree pruning class covers winter pruning techniques, common pruning and training mistakes, proper tool selection, and essential care tips specific to Illinois’ climate and growing conditions. Perfect for backyard growers, homesteaders, beginning orchardists, and homeowners with overgrown or neglected fruit trees, this workshop will teach you how to shape strong trees, improve airflow and sunlight penetration, and increase fruit production season after season.
In this workshop, you will learn how to:
- Time your pruning correctly for healthy growth and better fruit quality
- How to properly prune branches for proper tree health and overall care
- Use effective tree training strategies to support strong branches and heavy fruit loads
- Inspect fruit trees for branch structure, sunlight shading, and long-term pruning needs
Proper pruning makes a difference in the health, longevity, and productivity of fruit trees, especially young, neglected, or overgrown trees. Pruning is often overlooked by both backyard gardeners and beginning orchardists. This workshop will help you troubleshoot common growing problems and give you the skills and confidence to properly manage fruit trees for optimal fruiting and strong branching in Illinois.
Session Dates
Wednesday, December 2
- St. Clair Extension Office - (1478 IL-15, Belleville, IL 62221)
Tuesday, December 15
- Madison Extension Office - (900 Hillsboro Ave, Edwardsville, IL 62025)
Wednesday, January 6
- Monroe Extension Office - (901 Illinois Ave, Waterloo, IL 62298)
Wednesday, January 13
- Virtual via Zoom (A Zoom link will be emailed for the virtual workshop)
All sessions: 5:30–7:00 p.m.
University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, please contact the local Extension office at 618-939-3434.
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