Jun 5, 2009

Peach Production Workshop July 9 in Arkansas

The University of Arkansas will host a peach production workshop for both experienced and beginning growers at the Fruit Research Station at Clarksville, Ark., during the afternoon of Thursday, July 9.

Two speakers – Nathan Milburn of Milburn Orchards, Elkton, Md., and Jerry Frecon from Rutgers University in New Jersey – will address peach production and marketing.

“In addition, we will have a display of the large number of peach cultivars and selections we have at this facility and a tour that will emphasize our peach breeding program,” said John Clark, University of Arkansas fruit breeder.

“Whether you are thinking about expanding your existing orchard, changing to newer cultivars, planting a new orchard or looking for marketing opportunities, this is a great opportunity you cannot afford to miss.”

Milburn and his family operate a fourth-generation farm that produces largely for direct farm retail and u-pick, but still maintains some wholesale sales. Milburn Orchards is known for its transformation into a successful agri-entertainment farm operation.

Frecon is one of the top peach variety experts in the United States.

Clark will discuss objectives, advances and challenges of the peach breeding program at the University of Arkansas. Fruit Extension specialist M. Elena Garcia will discuss peach varieties and training systems.

The workshop will begin at 3:30 p.m. and end at 8 p.m. Dinner is included in the cost of $20 per person. Register before July 3. There will be no walk-in registration.

To register, call Katie Hanshaw at the Fruit Research Station at 479-754-2406, or e-mail [email protected].