Join us this March for our very first hands-on Ornamental and Apple Tree Pruning Workshop at White Feather! As the winter frost gives way to the budding promise of spring, it's the perfect time to learn the art and science of tree care. Whether you're a seasoned arborist or a budding enthusiast, this event offers a unique opportunity to hone your pruning skills here at the farm.
Led by Vern Rist, this workshop will cover essential techniques for pruning both ornamental and apple trees. From shaping to thinning, we'll explore the principles behind proper pruning practices, ensuring the health, vitality, and beauty of your trees for years to come. Participants will have the chance to get hands-on experience as we venture into the orchards and woodlands of our farm. Learn how to assess tree structure, identify diseased or damaged branches, and make precise cuts to encourage optimal growth.
Participants should bring gloves, pruning shears, pruning saw, and closed toed shoes.
Saturday 3/30
11am-12:30pm
TICKETS
4 tickets available at $25
8 tickets available at $35
learn more about our inspiration for sliding scale framework here
In the early 1980’s, while completing his Ph.D. In Plant Pathology at Cornell University, Vern Rist visited Woodstock in the southeastern Catskills. It was love at first sight. Following his newly kindled dream to live in that area, Vern moved to Saugerties in 1986. On a hope and a prayer, he placed an add in the Woodstock Times, offering consultations to people interested in the health of their trees and plants in general. To his amazement, he received three phone calls from that first add, and Healthy Plants, Consultation & Service, was born. Since shortly after that, Vern has been able to rely completely on "word of mouth" to build the business, which has evolved into a full scale tree and shrub service and a sought after consultation service.