While many of our farm and garden activities are paused in the winter, this is the time of year to prune fruit trees to increase their health, fruit production, and longevity. And since at least half of a tree resides underground, it comes as no surprise that soil conditions also greatly affect how a tree thrives. Winter pruning stimulates Springtime growth, and a skilled arborist can help a tree to grow into a strong, stable shape and also address diseased areas. In addition to pruning, we can help our fruit trees by making sure they have the soil organisms that they partner with underground. These organisms–including fungi, bacteria, protozoa, and nematodes–help a tree get the water and nutrients it needs to resist pests and disease and to increase the nutrient content and flavor of its fruits. Mulching around fruit trees helps create the conditions beneficial soil organisms need and it also allows a tree to make the best use of any water it receives, which is truly imperative in this dry winter we’re having.

Our first Field Day of 2025 will take place at the Alumni Orchard at the Northern New Mexico College Campus in El Rito. We will get hands-on instruction and practice in both the above and below ground care of fruit trees. Join experienced arborists Kelsey Pazera and Tim Petty as they show and provide guidance on how to prune fruit trees. Soil health consultants Lina Alegre and Navona Gallegos will lead us in inoculating the soil with compost extract and applying wood mulch.

Bring pruning tools if you have them and soil and tree-related questions. Delicious, locally sourced lunch from Nixta Ancestral Foods will be provided. As always, this is a free event, but we ask that you please sign up in advance.