About: Join the University of Minnesota Extension for an informative, hands-on workshop to learn about the fundamentals of pruning apple trees or grapevines. We’ll cover key pruning principles, technique and decision-making considerations, and best practices for tool care. If you’re new to pruning, or looking for a refresher, this workshop is a great place to start, ask questions, and confirm what you know. This workshop welcomes orchard workers, Master Gardeners, hobby growers, and backyard gardeners. Sessions will be offered at various locations throughout Minnesota and taught by UMN Extension educators. Participants are welcome to bring their own tools (pruning shears, loppers, and hand saws) to the workshop. We recommend dressing for the weather and to be prepared for a session of active learning. All attendees will receive the UMN Extension guide to pruning apple trees or grapevines. Registration required for attendance with the option to pay the registration fee online or a...
Annalisa Hultberg, Extension Educator, food safety Winter is a great time to plan your markets for this coming season. If you are selling your produce to a school, early care or other institutions, you might be asked about your food safety practices. The following information is meant to help clarify what is required and what is allowed under Minnesota state food code when farms sell to markets like schools and other institutions. Photo credit: Allison Sandve, University of Minnesota Can I sell my produce without a license? Yes! A s per Minnesota state statute, you do not need any license or inspection to sell your fresh produce, as long as the product is 100% from your own farm. This is called "product of the farm". This means product that a farmer grows with no off-farm ingredients added. As per the Minnesota Department of Health, food grown by farmers is an "approved source" . What about a GAP audit? A buyer might ask for a GAP audit, which i...