Master Gardeners of Greenbrier Valley held a Spring Pruning Clinic at the Master Gardener Demonstration Garden located at the West Virginia State Fairgrounds in Fairlea. The clinic was taught by Dr. Mira B. Danilovic, Extension Specialist Consumer Horticulture and Associate Professor with the WVU Extension Service and WVU Davis College of Agriculture Natural Resources and Design. Additionally, Dr. Mira serves as the State Coordinator for the Master Gardeners program.
Dr. Mira taught the class the correct pruning technique to address Phomopsis blight. This blight is caused by the fungus Phomopsis juniperovora, is a common disease affecting arborvitae, especially in the spring, causing tip blight and potentially killing new shoots.
In pruning a Vintage Gold arbor vitae bush, Dr. Mira explained that one should be able to put their fist into the plant without it scratching your arms- looking for a balance between density and air movement. This helps prevent disease and increases plant vitality.
If you are interested in attending future clinics or becoming a Master Gardener, please call Mary Dameron at the Greenbrier County Agriculture Extension Office at 304-647-7408.
