MT. VERNON and HARDIN, Ill. — For current research-based information on growing tree fruits, attend the 2018 Commercial Tree Fruit Schools. Speakers from University of Illinois, Weinzierl Fruit and Consulting, and Summit Tree Sales will discuss a wide range of subjects to help you meet the challenges of tree fruit production. Special guest speaker, Matthew Schuld, from Summit Tree Sales, will discuss choosing varieties for the commercial orchard and planning for the long term. Kurt Range, from Braeutigam Orchards in Belleville, will discuss the 2017 year in review. Two schools will be offered this year – February 13th at the Mt. Vernon, Ill., DoubleTree (formerly the Holiday Inn), and February 14th at the Knights of Columbus Hall, three miles south of Hardin, Ill.
Participants will have the opportunity to learn about insect management techniques, identification and control of apple and peach diseases, and identifying post-harvest food safety issues. Industry representatives will also be on hand to talk about their latest products and services.
MT. VERNON SCHOOL: Cost for the school is $40.00 per farm. Registration at the door will be $50.00 per farm. The registration fee includes one (1) copy of the 2018 Midwest Spray Guide per farm. Lunch is on your own.
HARDIN SCHOOL: Cost for the school is $40.00 per person. Orchards sending more than one employee will pay $40.00 for the first person and $30.00 for each additional person. Registration at the door will be $50.00 per person. One (1) copy of the 2018 Midwest Spray Guide will be given per orchard. Additional spray guides will be available for purchase. Lunch will be provided.
Advance registration is required before February 5, 2018.
Online registration is available at http://go.illinois.edu/2018treefruit
Questions can be directed to Laurie George, University of Illinois Extension Educator, at 618-242-0780, or via email at ljgeorge@illinois.edu.
— University of Illinois Extension
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