Two workshops planned for April will cover blueberry and bramble pruning techniques and provide updates on scouting for potential insect pests of berries.
Tuesday, April 12, 1 p.m.—2:30 p.m.
The Berry Patch at Stonewall Hill Farm, 15370 NY Route 22, Stephentown
Owner Dale Riggs does an excellent job pruning blueberries to encourage berry size and overall yield. She also grows several kinds of brambles in high tunnels with great success. She has a Friday strawberry cultivator, which has proved to be invaluable on her farm. Join us to learn about pruning, pest control and high tunnel production.
Thursday, April 14, 1 p.m.—2:30 p.m.
Scotch Ridge Berry Farm, 5092 Scotch Ridge Rd., Duanesburg
Owner Charles Holub grows many types of berries for direct market. We’ll prune blueberries and brambles but also take a look at currants and gooseberries. We’ll calibrate a backpack sprayer and learn to scout for Brown Marmorated Stink bug and Spotted Winged Drosophila.
There is a nominal fee of $10 per farm which can be paid at the workshop, but you MUST pre-register by April 11. Bring employees that help with pruning or pest management and get pesticide credits while you learn. Both meetings offer 2.5 DEC pesticide recertification credits in categories 1a, 22 and 10.
Register by contacting Marcie at 272-4210 Extension 111 or email mmp74@cornell.edu.
For more information call Laura McDermott at 518-791-5038, Chuck Bornt, 518-859-6213 or Crystal Stewart, 518-775-0018.
