Apple Tree Grafting Workshop

If you're tired of bland supermarket apples, why not register by Friday, March 8, for a workshop that will help you custom graft your own tree for fruit with old-fashioned flavor?

The Noah Webster House & West Hartford Historical Society and the Connecticut Horticultural Society are combining forces to offer an apple tree workshop on Saturday, March 23, from 2-4 p.m., at the Noah Webster House, 227 South Main St.,West Hartford.

Led by author, accomplished gardener and Middletown resident Tom Christopher, the workshop will cover a brief history of heritage apple trees and their important role in early American history; an introduction to the different methods of grafting apple trees (the only way to ensure that you get the desired apple); and a hands-on experience making your own grafts.

Each participant will come away with two grafted heritage apple trees (dwarf or semi-dwarf). Materials will be provided, but if you want to replicate your favorite apple tree, please feel free to bring to the class cuttings from last year’s growth. (These can be cut a couple of weeks in advance. Be sure to keep the cut ends moist with damp paper towels or newspaper and place in the refrigerator in a plastic bag.)

The workshop will close with a taste of fine apple cider next to the warmth of the Noah Webster House’s hearth.

All-inclusive costs for the program are $30 for museum and CHS members and $40 for nonmembers. Reservations are required by Friday, March 8, and seating is limited. Reserve a seat through                      NoahWebsterHouse.org or by calling the museum at 860-521-5362, ext. 12.