The annual pruning workshop was held today. We were lucky and caught a decent break in the rain. Dr. Carroll, Jennifer, Tom, Shelia and Thad discussed pruning tools, types of cuts and pruning methods for Apple, Pear, Peach and Grape. The group received a demonstration and even got to do some hands on pruning. Thanks to everyone who came out and endured the weather with … [Read more...] about Pruning Workshop
A BIG congratulations to two of our very own. Last week employees from the Fruit Experiment Station received awards at the 2024 Staff Service Awards Program held in Springfield. Steven Turner celebrated 15 years of service with the University. Steven is the Vehicle & Equipment Mechanic at the station and serves as an integral part of the operations. We constantly ask … [Read more...] about 2024 Staff Service Awards
Today we celebrated our Christmas Luncheon and the retirement of two longtime employees. Pam Turner who has been with MSU for 23 years and Randy Joe Stout who has been with MSU for 22 years. Photos to follow... … [Read more...] about Pam Turner and Randy Joe Stout Retirement Reception
We have started pruning Norton Grapes since they are one of the most cold hardy varities we grow. We collect the weight of new growth on a test vine in the vineyard and that helps us to determine how many buds to leave when pruning. The standard for Norton when spur pruning is 50 buds for the first pound of pruning weight off the test vine and then 10 buds for every additional … [Read more...] about Pruning Norton Grapes
The plastic on one of the greenhouses needed to be replaced. This needs to be done on a day with little wind and when the temperature is not too warm or too cold so that the material is easy to work with. It takes a full crew to make this work. … [Read more...] about Changing the plastic on the greenhouse