Care of fruit trees course

What will the Care of fruit trees course cover?

On this course, you will learn the basics of how to care for fruit trees of all ages. Particular attention will be given to how to establish young trees effectively and how to care for trees so that they remain healthy and productive.

Topics covered will include:

• Caring for young trees
• Watering
• Feeding, compost and mulching
• Growing healthy trees and maintaining a healthy orchard
• Management of land between trees including meadows, companion plants and other crops
• Recognising pests / diseases and how to deal with them organically where necessary
• Some pruning basics (there is not time to cover this fully on this course)
• Growing trees in small spaces
• Picking and storage
• Sources of further information, networks and project

This course will not cover the selection and planting of fruit trees/orchards, which is covered in the Planning and planting a small orchard course.

Who is the course for?

The course is open to anyone over the age of 16, and no prior knowledge is necessary. It is relevant to anyone caring for fruit trees in a garden or a small orchard. The course is particularly suitable for those with young fruit trees to care for and will be of interest to those caring for community and school orchards.

The tour will include a short walk of around one mile. Do dress appropriately, as we will not be deterred by poor weather conditions.

Brighton Permaculture Trust aims to meet the needs of participants with physical disabilities and learning difficulties. If you have any issues which you feel may affect your ability to attend or participate in this course, please contact us to discuss them prior to booking.

Learning methods and outcomes

These will include slides, discussions, and guided walks looking at newly planted trees, fence trained trees and established orchards. By the end of the course, you should have grasped the essentials of how to care for fruit trees, both young and mature.