Learn backyard fruit basics with Michigan State University Extension’s online course
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EmailIntroductory fruit growing concepts for small and tree fruits offered through self-paced course.
Would you like to learn more about what it takes to successfully grow fruit in your yard? Are you considering adding some strawberries or brambles to your garden? Wondering how to properly prune your apple trees? If you answered yes to any of those questions, then Michigan State University Extension’s Backyard Fruit 101 online course is for you. Designed for beginner fruit growers and those considering planting fruits, this course contains six different modules with over six hours of educational materials and resources. For only $30, you will have access to video recordings, research-based extension resources and activities.
The six different modules include:
- An introduction to growing fruit, including information on deciding why you should grow fruit, fruit selection and the importance of site requirements.
- Brambles, which includes raspberries and blackberries.
- Small fruits, which includes blueberries, strawberries and grapes.
- Pome fruits, which includes apples.
- Stone fruits, which includes peaches, nectarines, apricots and cherries.
- Unusual fruits.
Each module goes over the basics required to successfully grow each of the different types of fruit. Different topics also involve soil testing and management, site preparation, integrated pest management principles, importance of pollinators, and care and management.
The course is self-paced, so participants appreciate the flexibility to complete modules at their own pace. One new feature that consumer horticulture educators will be adding this year to the course is a question-and-answer option. Participants will be able to upload specific fruit questions and get timely responses from educators. We invite you to register soon for this course, so you can possibly incorporate some fruit into your garden this spring.
