This class covers the three main forms of mal-pruning: tree topping, inappropriate shearing of trees and shrubs, and over thinning. We compare and contrast mal-pruning with bona fide examples of pruning art: pollarding, cloud pruning, topiary, pleaching, and coppicing. This class ends on a humorous note with photos of the Good, the Bad, and the…

Learn the basics of fruit tree pruning and why your pruning strategies might be different when you prune for production. This class will cover apple, cherry, plum and pear trees.  Dormant season is a good time to prune many of our more common fruit trees, but summer pruning may be better for some fruits and…

Learn the basics of rose care and pruning and how to approach the different types of roses, including hybrid tea, shrub, and climbing roses.  Please note that registration for classes will end one hour prior to class start time. Recordings of online classes will be available for viewing for two weeks after the class date.…

This class will show you how, what and when to apply a specific pruning system. This class will cover the natural pruning system, including structural pruning of young trees, as well as mature tree pruning techniques (crown cleaning, crown thinning, crown raising, crown reduction). More formal systems including pollarding, espalier, and pleaching are also covered.…

Pruning trees makes sense when you understand the science behind it. You will be introduced to the basics of tree biology and structure, tree responses to the basic types of pruning cuts, and pruning standards and best management practices. Please note that registration for online classes will end one hour prior to class start time.…

Creating and maintaining a Japanese Garden requires a high level of pruning skill and dedicated annual maintenance. This class covers the pruning of Japanese maples (upright and weeping), bamboo, cloud pruning pines, and tamamono shearing. Please note that registration for online classes will end one hour prior to class start time. Recordings of online classes…

This class covers basic cuts, basic plant habits and what Cass Turnbull called the “pruning budget."  We will provide examples of five plants that are relatively easy to prune: nandina, evergreen azalea, lilac, camellia, and yew. Please note that registration for online classes will end one hour prior to class start time. Recordings of online…