LONGVIEW — WSU Master Gardeners present weekly free online programs on Tuesdays at noon .

Jan. 21: Fruit Tree Pruning — Interested in learning about the art of fruit tree pruning? Join in as WSU Extension Director Gary Fredricks provides guidance on the dos and don’ts of pruning fruit trees!

Jan. 28: Caring for Fruit Trees — Wondering how to get your fruit trees ready for a vibrant spring and summer? Join WSU Master Gardener Alice Slusher as she discusses effective strategies for managing issues like codling moth, apple maggots, peach leaf curl, apple and pear scab, and more. She will delve into organic solutions, ensuring a comprehensive approach to fruit tree care. You’ll also receive a management calendar. If you’re a fruit tree enthusiast in Southwest Washington, this event is a must-see!

Feb. 4: Plant Identification Apps for the Garden and our Community — Learn from WSU Master Gardener Jennifer Mendoza about identifying plants using phone apps such as iNaturalist (and others), and how these tools contribute to citizen-science for our community. The session will include instructions as well as the pros and cons of the apps available.

Feb. 11: Planning your Seed Starting Schedule — Do you know when the best times are to begin germinating various types of seeds, whether for flowers or vegetables? WSU Master Gardener Heidi Hubler will provide valuable insights into planting and sowing techniques to ensure you make the most of your gardening efforts by timing your planting for success. They will make sure you are ready for direct outdoor planting or indoor transplantation when the time is right.

Feb. 18: Rose Care in the Spring — Spring marks a crucial period for tending to your roses. Cultivating roses in Southwest Washington presents unique challenges as we contend with both insect pests and fungal diseases. WSU Master Gardener Michele Thomas is here to guide you in fertilizing, pruning and nurturing your roses, ensuring you’ll enjoy stunning blooms this upcoming summer.

Feb. 25: Grape Care and Pruning — Are grapes part of your garden dreams, or are you already nurturing these vines? Join with WSU Master Gardener Sara Clark for an exciting session where she’ll unravel the secrets of grapevine pruning and nurturing grape starts. Whether you’re a seasoned grape grower or just starting out, you’ll find all the answers you’ve been longing for in this informative session.

No need to register for online programs, just pop in. Connection information (sign up for the necessary Zoom account at zoom.us), then join from PC, Mac, Linux, iOS, or Android at wsu.zoom.us/j/7756056320?pwd=RzVxbTl0dXpyUjJjSDdsWnJuTXdydz09

The meeting ID is 775 605 6320 and the password is 12345.

To participate by phone, call 1-253-215-8782. For help or for more information, call Gary Fredricks at garyf@wsu.edu or 360-577-3014 Ext. 3.

In-person learning

For those able to travel to Longview, there are occasional in-depth, in-person classes. Credit cards are preferred, but there will be an option on the online site during checkout to mail or drop off a check at the WSU office. Checks or cash will not be accepted at workshops.

Feb. 1: An in-person course starting at 10 a.m. Saturday in Fruit Tree Care & Pruning — Wondering how to get your fruit trees ready for a vibrant spring and summer? Join us as WSU Master Gardener Alice Slusher will discuss effective strategies for managing issues like codling moth, apple maggots, peach leaf curl, apple and pear scab, and more. She will delve into organic solutions, ensuring a comprehensive approach to fruit tree care. You’ll also receive a management calendar. Following Alice, WSU Extension Director Gary Fredricks will show how to prune your fruit trees, including what not to do. Enrollment is limited to 30 people. The cost is $5. All attendees must pre-register and pay online at 2025-caring-for-troubleshooting-and-pruning-fruit-trees.cheddarup.com.

Feb. 8, 10 a.m. to noon Saturday: Raising Mason Bees — WSU Master Gardeners will provide insights into the art of nurturing mason bees. These orchard mason bees are excellent pollinators known for their non-aggressive nature and early spring activity. In this informative two-hour session, you’ll gain knowledge about the necessary equipment, seasonal care, bee biology, and effective pest management techniques. The workshop will be held in Longview. You will be given the location after you have registered. Walk-ins cannot be admitted. Enrollment is limited to 40 people. The cost is $5. All attendees must pre-register and pay online at 2025-raising-mason-bees-workshop.cheddarup.com.

Feb. 15 starting 10 a.m. Saturday: Grape Care and Pruning — WSU Master Gardeners will provide a comprehensive guide on grapevine pruning and the care of grape starts. Following the presentation will be a live demonstration of pruning techniques. Participants are welcome to bring their pruners to learn sharpening skills. If the weather permits, there will be an opportunity for hands-on pruning training. Participants will receive free starts of grape varieties Canadice and Venus. The workshop will be held in Longview. Enrollees will be given the location after they have registered. Walk-ins won’t be admitted. Enrollment is limited to 30 people. The cost is $10. All attendees must pre-register and pay online at 2025-grape-care-and-pruning.cheddarup.com.