Description

Bud Grafting – Saturday 24th August  10am – 4:30pm

Learn how to propagate apple trees by bud grafting in this practical workshop. These skills are useful to anyone who wishes to propagate fruit trees in their garden. This full-day workshop will involve theory, demonstrations and practical.

 

WHAT TO EXPECT:

Small Class Sizes – Enjoy personalized training with our orchardist expert in an intimate setting limited to 12 participants.

Heritage Scion Wood – Work with scion / bud wood from the National Irish Heritage Apple Tree Collection.

Take Home Your Creations – Leave with not just knowledge but two self-grafted apple trees!

 

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

Grafting History and Theory: Gain insights into the rich history and theory behind the art of grafting.

Best Varieties and Rootstock Selection: Discover the best apple varieties to graft and how to choose the right rootstocks for successful growth.

Scion  / Bud Wood Harvesting: Learn the art of harvesting and storing quality scion wood, crucial for successful grafting.

 

PRACTICAL SKILLS:

Safe Grafting Knife Use – Master the safe use of grafting knives and sharpening stones.

Grafting Techniques – Practice ‘bud’, ‘whip & tongue’ and ‘rind’ grafting techniques with hands-on demonstrations.

Maintenance and Aftercare: Understand post-grafting care and maintenance to ensure the success and vitality of your newly grafted plants.

 

Cost: €100

All materials will be provided, including scion wood, rootstocks, wax, grafting tape, compost, pots, grafting knives and two self-grafted trees to bring home.

 

  • 10% discount for supporters.
  • Workshops suitable for adults only – children under 18 years are not permitted to attend.
  • Cafe serving lunch & refreshments.

 

Instructing this workshop

Meet Cormac Griffith, your guide to the traditional skill of orcharding and the seasoned instructor for our “Bench Grafting” workshop at Irish Seed Savers. With almost 20 years of hands-on experience, Cormac has honed his skills as an orchardist, making him a master in the art of cultivating and nurturing apple trees. Cormac served as the Orchard Manager at Irish Seed Savers from 2005 to 2008, contributing significantly to the preservation of heritage apple varieties. Beyond his managerial role, Cormac has dedicated himself to educating enthusiasts in Orchard Management, Grafting, and Pruning through workshops and courses at Irish Seed Savers and An t-Ionad Glas – The Organic College.

Cancellation Policy: As a non-profit social enterprise and registered charity, we kindly ask for your understanding regarding our need for a cancellation policy. Please note that we require a minimum of 14 days’ notice for course cancellations to qualify for a full refund.