MSU Extension Grapes

Michigan State University Extension is announcing the upcoming Michigan Pruning School, led by the internationally renowned pruning masters Simonit & Sirch, set to take place in southwest Michigan in February 2026. This two-day, in-person workshop, followed by a dedicated spring webinar, is the beginning of a multi-year effort to bring world-class pruning education to Michigan’s grape and wine industry. In the coming years, Michigan State University (MSU) Extension aims to build on this foundation by offering continued training that helps growers strengthen long-term production, vine health and sustainability. 

Growers recognize that pruning is one of the most important decisions affecting vine structure, productivity and vineyard longevity. The Simonit & Sirch pruning method, explained in their manual “Grapevine Pruning and Green Shoot Management,” emphasize pruning methods that protect the vascular system, guiding vine growth and vine structure with modern pruning practices employed from Europe to California.  

During the Michigan Pruning School sessions, participants will spend time both in the classroom and the vineyard. The course begins with a focused discussion on vine anatomy, pruning evolution and how traditional cutting methods can unintentionally lead to internal wood desiccation and reduced vine resilience. The majority of the workshop will take place in the vineyard, where growers will receive hands-on instruction in spur and cane pruning under the direct guidance of the Simonit & Sirch team. This individualized field training is essential, as growers learn not only where to cut, but how those decisions influence vine health over decades.  

A live spring webinar scheduled for April or May will complete the program by covering shoot selection and thinning at the time these early-season decisions are important.  

Because this training relies on direct interaction and personalized feedback, enrollment is limited to just 16 participants. This small group size ensures plenty of time with the instructors and a high-quality learning experience for everyone involved. Seats are expected to fill quickly, so keep an eye out for the registration announcement. 

A large portion of the workshop’s cost will be supported through an MSU Project GREEEN educational initiative, which helps make the program more accessible for growers statewide. The event will also include a registration fee, and MSU Extension welcomes additional sponsorship opportunities from industry partners who wish to support this educational effort. 

Details on sponsorships, registration costs and all logistical information will be released as soon as planning is finalized. 

Growers who are members of the Michigan Grape Society or Parallel 45 Vine & Wine will receive special registration discounts, offering an excellent reason to renew memberships ahead of the event. These grower groups continue to play a vital role in strengthening viticulture education across the state. 

The Michigan Grape Society will manage the registration process for this event. We encourage all Michigan winegrape growers to save the date and prepare to register early. This workshop represents a great opportunity to learn directly from one of the most influential pruning teams in the world. 

The Michigan Grape Society will take a lead role in co-hosting this event in southwest Michigan, with MSU Extension partnering closely to support education and outreach. Their involvement is essential to bringing this advanced pruning training to the region.  

For questions, please contact Mike Reinke, MSU Extension viticulture specialist at reinkem3@msu.edu; Mike DeSchaaf, president of the Michigan Grape Society, at deschaa6@msu.edu; or Esmaeil Nasrollahiazar, northwest Michigan viticulture educator at nasroll2@msu.edu. Those interested in sponsoring the workshop are encouraged to reach out—this is an excellent opportunity to support pruning education and Michigan’s grape industry.