Workshop looks to help residents produce better small fruit

NEWS RELEASE
Issued - March 2, 2009

ARDMORE, Okla. — The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation's Agricultural Division will host a Small Fruit Workshop from 10 a.m. to noon on Tuesday, March 10, in the Horticulture area on the Noble Foundation's campus in Ardmore.

During the workshop, Steve Upson, Noble Foundation horticulturist and Dr. Eric Stafne, OSU Cooperative Extension Fruit and Nut Crops Specialist, will discuss topics such as site, soil and water requirements for small fruit production; variety selection; and weed and pest control. There will also be an overview on the use of hoop houses to produce strawberries. A pruning demonstration on grapes and brambles will be presented as well.

"Growing conditions are tough on plants in this region," said Steve Upson, Noble Foundation horticulturist. "This workshop will provide attendees the information necessary to be successful in growing their own fruit."

The event is offered at no charge, courtesy of the Noble Foundation, but advanced registration is required. To register, please contact Tracy Cumbie at 580.224.6411 or register online at www.noble.org/AgEvents.

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For media inquiries concerning the Noble Foundation, please contact:

J. Adam Calaway

jacalaway@noble.org

The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, Inc. (www.noble.org), headquartered in Ardmore, Okla., is a nonprofit organization conducting agricultural, forage improvement and plant biology research; assisting farmers and ranchers through educational and consultative agricultural programs; and providing grants to nonprofit charitable, educational and health organizations.