Registration is now open for Pruning School with Simonit & Sirch in southwest Michigan
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EmailThe Michigan Pruning School is a multi-year collaboration to advance sustainable pruning practices in Michigan vineyards.
Michigan State University Extension, in partnership with the Michigan Grape Society, is pleased to announce that registration is now open for the 2026 Michigan Pruning School featuring internationally recognized pruning masters Simonit & Sirch.
The two-day, in-person workshop will be held March 4–5, 2026, in southwest Michigan. Day one will take place at the Southwest Michigan Research and Extension Center in Benton Harbor, Michigan, and day two will be hosted at Jon Hinkelman’s Farm. The registration fee is $500, and enrollment is limited to 16 participants to ensure an intensive, high-quality, hands-on learning experience.
This program represents the launch of a multi-year initiative to bring advanced pruning education to Michigan’s grape and wine industry. Michigan State University (MSU) Extension intends to build on this foundation with continued programming designed to enhance vine health, long-term productivity and vineyard sustainability across the state.
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.
The course integrates classroom instruction with extensive vineyard application. Participants will review vine anatomy, the evolution of pruning systems and the long-term impacts of traditional cutting practices that may contribute to internal wood desiccation and reduced vine resilience. In the vineyard, Simonit & Sirch tutors will provide guided instruction in spur and cane pruning, focusing on the application of four core principles to Guyot systems:
- Respecting sap flow
- Controlling branching
- Reducing the number of wounds
- Making small pruning cuts
The majority of the program will take place outdoors, where participants will receive individualized guidance and direct feedback. This immersive format enables growers to understand not only where to cut, but how pruning decisions influence vine performance over decades.
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.
A substantial portion of the workshop cost is supported through an MSU Project GREEEN educational initiative, increasing accessibility for growers statewide. Members of the Michigan Grape Society and Parallel 45 Vine & Wine are eligible for discounted registration. The Michigan Grape Society is co-hosting the event and managing registration.
Pruning School
Southwest Michigan Research and Extension Center
Benton Harbor, MI
$500 | Limited to 16 participants
Because space is limited, early registration is strongly encouraged.
In addition, a special pre-event dinner will be held:
Houndstooth Dinner with Simonit & Sirch
March 3, 2026 | 5–7 p.m.
Houndstooth, Benton Harbor
$130.06
Guests will enjoy a custom menu curated by Chef Cheynne, paired with wines selected by Maxx Eichberg. Attendance is open to pruning school participants and one guest (limit two per party).
Register for Dinner at Houndstooth
For additional information, please contact:
- Mike Reinke, MSU Extension Viticulture Specialist (reinkem3@msu.edu)
- Mike DeSchaaf, President, Michigan Grape Society (deschaa6@msu.edu)
- Esmaeil Nasrollahiazar, Northwest Michigan Viticulture Educator (nasroll2@msu.edu)
Sponsorship opportunities are available for industry partners interested in supporting pruning education and advancing Michigan’s grape and wine industry.
