There are certain tasks that really exemplify the phrase “many hands make light work.” Seed packing is one that comes to mind, but it turns out that pruning is another! With the help of a group of almost twenty volunteers who spent a sunny, blustery afternoon pruning the fruit trees at Marra Farm, we’re now one step closer to a healthy fruit crop for local food banks this fall.

Many, many thanks to the enthusiastic volunteers who gave their time, the leaders and experienced pruners who shared their knowledge, and to Central Co-op for keeping us energized with some delicious snacks. Not only do we have healthier fruit trees to show for everyone’s hard work, but there’s also a veritable mountain of pruned branches to show just how much work it took!

Spending the day outside was a good reminder that spring was just around the corner–despite the current threat of snow. But it’s not too late to do some winter pruning of your own. For more information, check out City Fruit’s excellent resources and their classes on fruit tree care. And if you find yourself with extra fruit next fall, please consider donating it to a local food bank, shelter, or meal program, either with the help of the Community Fruit Tree Harvest, or on your own.

Just getting started…

…and look at those beautiful trees afterward!