Maine has a long history of family-scale agriculture, and the apple tree has been an integral part of that history. Not so long ago, most Mainers lived on farms that contained orchards. According to Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA), hundreds of different apple varieties were grown on these family-scale orchards including about 150 varieties that originated on Maine farms. Given this, it is not surprising that many backyards throughout Maine today still bear evidence of this history. Yet, for homeowners across our region caring for these trees, and in particular, restoring old trees, can be a mystery.

With this in mind, Boothbay Region Land Trust (BRLT) will be hosting a lecture and demonstration entitled Apple Tree Basics: Late Winter Pruning & Tree Care this Saturday, March 2 from 1-3 p.m. This event is an opportunity for the public to learn how to care for apple trees in their own backyards. The talk will include information on pruning, as well as protecting trees from pests and encouraging healthy growth. Learn tips for how to restore neglected trees as well, with an eye toward bringing them back into fruit production and good health.

Ron Ross, local amateur orchardist and founder of BRLT’s volunteer apple tree restoration program Apple Corps, will be presenting. Ron is a current member of the BRLT Board of Directors. He has also spearheaded an annual heirloom apple talk and tasting, which has run for the past two years and continues to be one of BRLT’s most popular educational events. Ron and his partner, Fred Kraeuter, began Burnham Cove Heirloom Apple Orchard on the River Road in Boothbay in 2014. He has a wealth of information from his own experiences restoring and grafting trees throughout his orchard, and will be happy to answer questions and provide guidance following his talk. Furthermore, weather permitting, attendees will be invited to join a demonstration utilizing the heritage trees in Oak Point Farm’s orchard.

Space for this event is limited and registration is required. To register, contact BRLT Environmental Educator Tracey Hall at thall@bbrlt.org or call 633-4818.