If you’re ready to immerse yourself in the art and science of organic fruit tree growing, this class is for you! This comprehensive course will give you the tools you need to successfully cultivate fruit trees on a backyard or small-orchard scale. The course takes place February 8-10 at the historic Alan Chadwick Garden on the UC Santa Cruz campus. Friday’s class meets from 5-7:30 pm, Saturday and Sunday sessions meet from 10 am – 4pm.

Online and mail-in registration details here.

Through lectures and hands-on practice you’ll learn how to select appropriate fruit tree varieties; choose and use the right tools; prepare the planting hole; plant, fertilize, and prune your trees; set up an irrigation system; improve the soil with cover crops; and control pests and diseases. Registration cost includes the Fruit Tree Reader, a selection of articles designed for this course.

The course will be taught by Orin Martin, manager of the Alan Chadwick Garden at UC Santa Cruz. For over 35 years Martin has cultivated hundreds of organic fruit trees at the Chadwick Garden, and taught thousands of students and community members how to establish and care for fruit trees. Zoe Hitchner and Sky DeMuro, organic farmers at Everett Family Farm, will be co-instructors. Class size is limited to ensure a quality experience, with an emphasis on hands-on learning.