OrchardKeepers receive training in basic arboricultural principles. Through six hours of classroom time and two hours of outdoor training, participants learn about food security, soils and basic tree biology, site suitability, selection of species, proper planting techniques, common insects and diseases, control methods, fruit management and pruning. Upon completion of the course, OrchardKeepers are asked to give eight hours of volunteer time to the Giving Grove for assistance with care on one of their 100+ orchards found around the Kansas City metropolitan region (it is not required to volunteer, although we highly recommend it). If you miss a class during the training, you can make it up at a later date!