Master vineyard pruning: 2 day Michigan workshop welcomes global grape experts
Space is limited to 16 participants — secure your spot today and sharpen your pruning skills before the season begins.
The two-day, in-person workshop — slated for March 4th to 5th — will feature internationally recognized pruning masters Simonit & Sirch, according to a post at Michigan Farm Bureau.
The first day will take place at the Southwest Michigan Research and Extension Center in Benton Harbor, and day two will be hosted at Jon Hinkelman’s Farm.
According to MSU’s Esmaeil Nasrollahiazar, Mike Reinke, and Paolo Sabbatini, the program represents the launch of a multi-year initiative to bring advanced pruning education to Michigan’s grape and wine industry.
“Pruning remains one of the most critical management decisions influencing vine structure, crop balance and vineyard longevity. The Simonit & Sirch method — outlined in ‘Grapevine Pruning and Green Shoot Management’— emphasizes protection of the vine’s vascular system and the development of resilient structure through plant-based principles now adopted in leading wine regions worldwide,” wrote the MSU researchers.
What will take place at the event?
In the vineyard, Simonit & Sirch tutors will provide guided instruction in spur and cane pruning, focusing on the application of four core Guyot system principles:
- Respecting sap flow
- Controlling branching
- Reducing the number of wounds
- And making small pruning cuts
Most of the program will take place outdoors, where participants will receive individualized guidance and direct feedback. A follow-up spring webinar, scheduled for April or May 2026, will complete the program by addressing shoot selection and thinning at the critical early-season stage. Lunch will be provided both days.
Members of the Michigan Grape Society and Parallel 45 Vine & Wine are eligible for discounted registration.
A special pre-event dinner will also be held March 3 at Houndstooth. Cost to attend is $130.06. Register here.