On Sept. 21 the Woodcock Demonstration Garden “Class Act” welcomes veteran Washington State University Clallam County Master Gardener Jeanette Stehr-Green. Her 10 a.m. presentation will outline growing, developing and the essentials of pruning for bigger and tastier blueberries.

Research has shown that when blueberry plants are not pruned or are pruned too lightly, they fail to develop strong wood and become less productive.  Blueberry growers need to establish an annual pruning regimen to remove old and diseased canes, encourage the appearance of strong new canes and increase their harvest.

After hearing this presentation, participants will be able to:

• Describe the cycle of blueberry cane growth.

• Identify the best season to prune blueberries.

• Outline an approach to blueberry pruning (i.e., types of canes that should be removed).

• Recognize older canes that need to be removed.

• Know how to clean their pruning tools.

Stehr-Green says wintertime is the best time to prune blueberries. Blueberry growers will be able to apply what they learn in the coming winter. With an annual pruning regimen, the gardener’s blueberry bushes will be happier and healthier and produce bigger and better berries.

“As a berry enthusiast, I enjoy growing, picking and eating berries,” Stehr-Green says. “I have had blueberry bushes for about 10 years. My bushes have endured alkaline soil, deer, birds, drought and my own stupidity and are finally producing well. In other words, I have learned the hard way.”

The Master Gardener Foundation of Clallam County provides horticultural education to individuals to help them manage their landscapes and gardens in a science-based, sustainable manner and to increase public awareness of the value of home and public landscapes and the benefits of gardening as apart of a healthy lifestyle.

For more information, call 565-2679.