Phil will start by discussing ways of managing orchards that don’t involve mowing or putting up with rank grass: 

• planting guilds (syntropic agroforestry style)
• scything, which he’ll demonstrate
• grazing livestock (including birds)

Then we talk about nutrition. Get an introduction to biochar on a backyard scale, using fruit tree prunings and a simply converted 44-gallon drum. Learn how to make charcoal, simple ways to activate it (turning it into biochar), how to use it when planting and how to add it to existing orchards. Then we discuss liquid fertilisers.

After lunch, we focus on maintaining pruning tools, specifically secateurs and loppers. Bring a pair of either with you and learn about correct use and how to care for them, including how to disinfect and when that's required. We’ll get hands-on with seasonal maintenance: Phil will demonstrate how to disassemble, clean and sharpen.

Diamond files will be available for purchase for those who wish to take one home. Order of topics may change depending on weather (we’ll be under cover while working on pruning tools).

BYO lunch and appropriate wet weather gear. Tea and coffee provided.

Sunday 15 June | 10am-2.30pm | Ashhurst, Manawatū

Limited numbers. Registration required. $25 pp or $35 for two from the same household.

Current NZ Tree Crops registered financial members have advance access to register. Numbers are capped at 30 and we expect this event will quickly fill up so be sure to register ASAP.

Registrations can be made HERE