Greenfield – Central Indiana commercial tree fruit and small fruit growers can access the latest production information in a meeting May 8, at Anderson Orchard in Mooresville.  

Sponsored by the Hancock and Morgan County offices of the Purdue Cooperative Extension Service, the meeting will provide an opportunity for growers to meet and ask questions about the production of quality fruit. Those who need to renew their pesticide applicators license will obtain the necessary credit by attending this session. 

A twilight tour of the orchard’s fruit plantings will begin at 5:30 p.m. Participants will see firsthand the progress of the crop and learn the methods used to help it to this point in its development. Discussion will likely include the impact of the late spring freeze and drought of 2007 on tree condition and the 2008 fruit crop. 

Presenters will include a trio of Purdue specialists representing the entomology, botany, plant pathology, and horticulture departments at Purdue University, each of whom will focus on a different aspect of modern fruit culture and crop protection.  

While this program’s content will be directed toward commercial fruit growers, it is open at no cost to anyone with an interest in the production of quality fruit. Please dress appropriately for the weather of the day. 

There is no charge to attend, but pre-registration would be greatly appreciated to facilitate planning.

To preregister, for additional information about this educational program, or if you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, please contact Roy Ballard by stopping by the Hancock County Extension Office at 802 N. Apple St., Greenfield (just north of the fairgrounds); by calling (317) 462-1113; or by e-mailing rballard@purdue.edu.