By Blake Jackson
University of Missouri Extension is offering hands-on workshops in March and April to assist small farmers in enhancing their business planning and orchard management skills.
The "Root to Profit: Apple and Pear Tree Grafting and Small Farm Business Essentials" workshops will take place across Missouri.
Workshops are scheduled for March 25 in Maryville, April 2 in Mountain Grove, April 9 in St. Louis, and April 11 in Troy.
"From harnessing the power of grafting to uncovering business planning resources, attendees will walk away equipped with tools to grow their operations in 2025," said Eli Isele, MU Extension field specialist in horticulture.
These workshops are designed for both aspiring and established small farmers seeking to expand their knowledge and improve profitability.
Attendees will gain practical experience in orchard establishment and management, including grafting techniques. Participants will leave with three fruit trees they grafted themselves.
The workshops will also provide insights into business planning and available resources through MU Extension, such as customizable high-density orchard enterprise budgets.
Presentations from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency (FSA) staff will cover loan programs and resources for small farmers.
"FSA is a tremendous partner to Missouri agriculture," said Mallory Rahe, MU Extension associate professor and FSA project lead. "We hope that workshop attendees can better understand how to work with FSA as they start or grow their farm."
The workshops are a result of a partnership between MU Extension and FSA, aimed at providing urban and nontraditional producers with essential knowledge and resources.
For more information and registration, visit https://extension.missouri.edu/search?s=root%20to%20profit&f%5B0%5D=type%3Aevent. For questions or accommodation, contact Eli Isele at elihulsele@missouri.edu or 636-970-3000.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-richard-7
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables