Learn which fruit trees to plant (and how)

Choosing the right variety makes a huge difference in that tree’s future success. Many fruit trees need chilly nights in order to produce blossoms and eventually a good crop. And with fewer chill hours come changes in recommendations.

If you’re considering adding fruit to your landscape or expanding your backyard orchard, this class is for you. Placer County master gardeners will present the latest UC research as well as their own expertise.

Set for 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, at Loomis Library, “Fruit Tree Selection and Dormant Planting” will cover the basics plus a lot more. Admission and parking are free. No registration is required.

“Have you ever wondered what kinds of fruit trees would be best in your garden?” ask the master gardeners. “This class is for you if you are interested in learning the five most important steps that ensure flourishing fruit trees.”

Those steps include:

* Selecting the right varieties;

* Understanding the importance of chill requirements;

* Attracting pollinators for your fruit trees;

* Learning successful bare-root planting techniques; and

* Knowing how to increase the variety of your fruit trees.

Also on Feb. 8, the Placer County master gardeners will host their monthly “Open Garden” from 10 a.m. to noon at the their demonstration garden adjacent to the library. Fruit trees are part of that new garden.

Loomis Library and Community Education Center is located at 6050 Library Drive, Loomis.