We will have hands-on field work in the apple orchard. Learn about soils, sunlight, nutrients, mulch and protections. Best practices will be covered for care, pruning, and maintenance.

Please bring gloves, bypass pruners or loppers. This program runs rain or shine. Dress appropriately for outdoor Michigan weather conditions. Ages 14 and up.

Your Instructors Derek Plotkowski and Clay Ottoni:

Derek has served as the Fruit Extension Educator for Southeast Michigan with Michigan State University since 2022. He holds a doctorate in plant agriculture from the University of Guelph, where he studied the horticultural and juice attributes of apple cultivars grown for hard cider production. He grew up near Utica, MI and works out of the Tollgate Farm in Novi, MI.

Master Gardener Clay has been farming for over five decades growing fruit trees. He  helps at MSU Extension Tollgate Education Center, earning the Golden Shovel Award. He is a member of MI Nut and Fruit Growers Association, High Density Orchard, and has been involved with 4H and beekeeping clubs.

Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, CLF includes nine restored buildings as well as 16-acres of beautiful grounds, apple orchard, reflection pond, and vistas to enjoy year round.