Mass Aggie Workshop Focuses on Fruit Tree Grafting

AMHERST, Mass. – A hands-on workshop about fruit tree grafting is scheduled for Saturday, March 16, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at UMass Cold Spring Orchard, 391 Sabin St., Belchertown.

Wes Autio, director of the Stockbridge School of Agriculture and an expert on apple growing, will lead the event, part of a series of home gardening workshops presented by Mass Aggie Seminars 2019.

For horticultural enthusiasts, grafting is one of the most satisfying techniques to master. Autio will teach participants about “bench grafting” and “cleft grafting,” and will discuss other techniques, as well. He will also address proper tools and sharpening techniques.

Workshop participants will graft several types of apple trees to take home. Part of the workshop will take place outside, so attendees should dress appropriately for potentially wet, cold and muddy conditions.

The workshop costs $100. Bring a bag lunch and register at UMassGarden.com.