Learn the basics of summer fruit tree pruning at a workshop offered by the Sonoma Ecology Center on Saturday, Sept. 6, at the Sonoma Garden Park. The class will be taught by Rebecca Bozzelli, Garden Manager at the park.

“While many people think of pruning as something to do in the winter, summer pruning is a great way to maximize fruit production and keep your trees to a manageable size,” said Bozzelli. “Proper pruning at this time of year can strengthen trees by setting up strong branches for next year’s growth, reducing water use, and helping more light get to the fruit to help it ripen properly.” Trees that can benefit from summertime pruning include apples, peaches and pears.

The workshop will begin with a discussion of summer pruning basics, followed by a walk through the garden for a demonstration and practice period. Bozzelli will also discuss after-harvest care to prepare your trees for fall and the coming dormant season.

Rebecca Bozzelli has been gardening since 2000 in the Bay Area and applies her knowledge of pruning to over 100 fruit trees at Sonoma Garden Park.

The pruning workshop will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 6, at the Sonoma Garden Park, 19990 Seventh Street East in Sonoma. The class fee is $20 (sliding scale) and reservations are required. For more information call Rebecca Bozzelli at 707-996-9744, ext. 23, or e-mail rebecca@sonomaecologycenter.org.

The mission of the Sonoma Ecology Center is to work with the community to enhance and sustain ecological health in Sonoma Valley.