Professional Fruit Growing Certificate

Module 2: An Introduction to Basic Fruit Plant Biology

Plant Structure and Characteristics ~ Plant Processes ~ Plant Physiology.

Modules 3 - 5: Husbandry

Soil Preparation ~ Planting and Spacing ~ Feeding and Watering ~ Pests, Diseases and Weed Control ~ Propagation ~ Harvesting and Post-Harvest Physiology.

Module 3: Soft Fruit 1

Strawberries ~ Raspberries ~ Loganberries & Hybrids.

Module 4: Soft Fruit 2

Currants and Gooseberries

Module 5: Soft Fruit 3

Grapes, Heathland fruits and Melons.

Modules 6 - 11: Tree Fruits

Pollination ~ Incompatibility ~ Ineffective Pollinators ~ Soil Preparation ~ Planting, Staking etc. ~
Rootstocks and Tree Form ~ Pruning for Training and Renewal ~ Standards, Spindlebush,
Cordons, Espaliers, Dwarf Pyramid ~ Feeding and Watering ~ Fruit Thinning and Branch Support
~ Pests, Diseases and Weed Control ~ Harvesting, Storage and Post-Harvest Physiology
~ Propagation and the Regeneration of Older Trees.

Module 6: Apples and Pears

Module 7: Plums

Module 8: Cherries

Module 9: Figs

Module 10: Peaches, Apricots, Nectarines and Almonds

Module 11: Mulberries, Elderberries, Quinces & Medlars, Nuts

Certificate in Professional
Fruit Growing

Introduction

Although this course has been designed as an entry level introduction for the aspiring fruit grower, some previous horticultural experience would be a considerable advantage. Prospective students without such experience are advised to consider combining the course with wider, general study of horticultural science. The Principal or Director of Studies would be happy to discuss such possible combinations. The course is also confined to professional fruit growing in the United Kingdom. Extended and modified courses to cover other countries and regions are available. Please ask for details.

Module 1: An Introduction to Fruit Crops

Climatic Considerations ~ Temperature, Rainfall and Wind ~ Site and Situation ~ Planning Your Planting Scheme ~ Preparing the Site ~ Soil, Drainage, Irrigation, Composts etc. ~ Wiring for Training ~ Caging for Specialist Crops ~ Glasshouse and Protected Cropping ~ Tools and Equipment. Health and Safety ~ Risk Assessment.