Pruning 

Adopters can take advantage of several options to learn how to prune apples trees in the Curran Orchard. Everyone is encouraged to view the below Power Point presentation before coming to the orchard.

When you arrive at the orchard, please check in at the barn located at the top of the gravel road via the Grandview Drive entrance. Recommended tools are hand pruners, loppers, pruning saws, work gloves, safety glasses, hats and raingear. NO LADDERS ARE ALLOWED. Some tools available at barn to borrow.
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2026 Pruning Dates

 

Free pruning instruction is available at pruning parties on the following Saturdays from 10am to 1pm. Master Gardeners and trained volunteers are available to provide guidance and assistance if needed.

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• January 31

• February 7 and 21

• March 7, 21, and 28

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People are welcome to prune at their convenience AFTER receiving appropriate instructions. 

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Core Revised 2024 Pruning Powerpoint

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Click here to download the Student Volunteer Liability Form

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2026 Mason Bee Workshop at the UP Library!

Learn about the plight of native, nonaggressive pollinators and the difference between native solitary bees and honey bees at a free presentation on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 2-4pm at the University Place Library.

 

Curran Orchard Beekeeper Rick Mercier will discuss how you can help bees, how easy it is to raise them at home and why protecting them makes a difference. Everyone is welcome!

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About Rick Mercier:

Local beekeeper Rick Mercier provides Mason Bees – the stingless little heroes that help pollinate the Curran Apple Orchard Park each year!  
 
Rick has been raising these amazing PNWs very own, non-aggressive, and highly efficient pollinators for more than 15 years. With native bees in decline, it’s more important than ever to do our part. Check back for future class dates. Everyone is welcome to attend.

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Also, don't miss Rick Mercier’s video on  “How to ‘bee’ successful raising orchard mason bees”  at “It’s all the Buzz.com”​​