A free fruit tree pruning and planting seminar will be held at Tāneatua Community Orchard and Garden next weekend.

Tāneatua Lions president Andrew Iles said the seminar had become an annual event and was now into its fifth year.

Local orchardist and member of Bay of Plenty Tree Crops Association Greig Reid has held the seminars in previous years. This year, he will be supported by other members of the association.

“Not only will we have more knowledgable and experienced people on hand to demonstrate pruning techniques on apple, pear, plum, feijoa, grapes, persimmon and citrus, the association are donating more plum and fig varieties to be planted on the day,” Iles said.

“Locals are encouraged to bring along their secateurs or pruning lopers and be part of the action. They will also be welcome to share in the free barbecue, tea and coffee.

The event is on Sunday, July 12, from 10am to 3pm. The orchard and garden is at 7-9 Amokura Street, Tāneatua.

For further information, contact Iles on 027 2941849.