Bonnie Cranmer
Contributing writer
Virginia Cooperative Extension Agriculture Agent Jonathan Stanley has planned a comprehensive workshop for apple growers. Grafting is a method to preserve lesser-known species of apple trees that are less readily available for purchase. Finding the right variety that grows in the Craig County climate can lead to years of good tasting fun. Grafting those apple trees gives generations the chance to learn, enjoy and share the fruits of the tree.
The workshop includes discussion about apples. Varieties will be reviewed for taste, ease of growing and longevity. Water and drought conditions will be covered for fruit trees and how to prepare for challenges. Apples are not the hardest or easiest to grow. Instructions on bringing a “grafting wood,” a selection of last year’s growth from an existing tree, no thinner than a pencil (¼ x ⅜”) about 6-8” in length. Place the cutting in a plastic bag in the bottom of the refrigerator to ready for the workshop.
Demonstration of grafting techniques will offer best practices. The idea is to learn the process, which can be repeated as often as new trees are desired. The workshop cost is $10 and includes 3 rootstock to take home. Register for the March 27 workshop no later than March 24 by calling the Extension Office 540.864.5812. Those who would like to purchase root stock without attending the workshop, should let them know quantity for ordering.
Other workshops are available on request from Virginia Extension Service. At the recent session on backyard chickens, several other topics requested included agri-tourism, starting a greenhouse business and water harvesting. Informational sheets on a wide variety of topics are available online from Virginia Cooperative Extension and other state extension research initiatives and programs.
Virginia Cooperative Extension operates out of 107 offices, 11 Agricultural Research and Extension centers, and six 4-H centers across the commonwealth. The agents, specialists, and volunteers work to assist farmers, empower youth, guide responsible resource management, and advance the wellbeing of all Virginians. The Craig County Extension office includes Agriculture Agent Jonathan Stanley and Michelle Dickerson Poff, senior extension agent and 4-H coordinator.
