Event Overview
Perry-O and David Sliwa have been growing pears since the mid-1990s near Decorah, Iowa. They started at Meadow Farm, then moved in 2016 to Plum Ridge Fruit Farm. Join the Sliwas at this field day to see pear tree variety trials and take part in discussion about selecting pear varieties. You'll learn about fire blight-resistant pears and classic varieties, a pear germplasm repository and collector favorites. The Sliwas will also discuss how they manage their orchard floor, focusing on enhancing the soil food web and emphasizing the role of mycorrhizal fungi.
Perry-O and David also have a small vineyard. We'll cap off the field day with Madeline Wimmer, who will talk about vine training systems and grape varieties, alongside general vineyard management.
Meal
Lunch will follow the field day.
See & Discuss
- Pear variety trials and selection
- Orchard floor management and soil health
- Vineyard management
Sponsors
- Farming for Public Health
- Organic Fruit Growers Association
