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Grafting branches of a tree onto the rootstock of another is a centuriesold craft that has been foundational in the husbandry of fruit trees. A two-part workshop series sponsored by the Rockbridge office of Virginia Cooperative Extension will allow participants to gain hands on experience with the guidance of a proficient local orchardist.
Part one of the series will be Thursday, Feb. 27, at 6:30pm, Part two of the series will be held Tuesday, March 18, at 6:30 p.m. Both sessions will be held in the community building adjacent to Timber Ridge Presbyterian Church located at 73 Sam Houston Way, just north of exit 195 of Interstate 81.
In part one of the series on Feb. 27, participants will learn how to select and properly cut vegetative branches suitable for grafting called “scionwood,” will hear an overview of the role of grafting in fruit tree management, and learn about interesting fruit varieties. In part two of the series on March 18, participants will graft scionwood (they have chosen from their own trees or from the selection provided to the class) onto rootstock they can take home to establish.
George Persinger of Rockbridge Baths is serving as class instructor. George is an experienced orchardist and maintains a substantial orchard consisting of unique and heirloom apple, peach, plum, and other species.
Cost of participating in the two-part series is $35 and includes a cutting tool, scionwood, rootstock, and printed materials.
To see a flier with more information and a link to sign up, go online to rockbridge. ext.vt.edu. People can also go direct to the registration form at https://tinyurl.com/RockbridgeGrafting2025.
If you do not have access to a computer or the internet and wish to learn more about the fruit tree grafting class, contact me, Tom Stanley, through the Rockbridge County Extension Office at (540) 4634734.
