Join us for a one-day, hands-on masterclass in an idyllic working kitchen garden nestled in the Mendip Hills near Frome. This immersive experience will show you how to revitalise and increase the productivity of your apple, pear, quince and other top-fruit trees.
If you cannot make this 10th September masterclass then it is also being repeated the week before (on 4th September).
Led by renowned plantsman Chris Smith, owner of Pennard Plants, the day includes expert demonstrations on pruning bush, espalier, and mature tree forms. You’ll also learn how to renovate aging trees that have fallen into low fruiting, as well as master the theory of pruning and tool maintenance.
This practical workshop includes:
Hands-on planting and initial pruning of bare-root trees
Working with a wide variety of established fruit trees
A session on sharpening and caring for your secateurs – bring your favourites and a pair of gloves!
Expert tuition, suitable for beginners and those wishing to refine their pruning skills
Hosted by Neil Crump, (Asterion & Co. founder) at The Old Vicarage, Leigh upon Mendip – a beautifully reimagined 16th-century farmhouse with eclectic, design-led interiors. It’s a relaxed yet inspiring setting for the day, with a seated garden lunch of seasonal produce, plus home-made treats and refreshments throughout.
The afternoon wraps up with a relaxed garden tour and optional game of pétanque (French boules).
Guests will take home a goody bag including a Winter Pruning Guide authored by Chris himself, a fruit tree, Neil’s favourite book about how Brit’s became gardening obsessed. Most importantly you’ll have acquired the knowledge and confidence to improve the health and yield of your own fruit trees.
Masterclass Details
Date: Wednesday 10th September 2025
Time: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location: The Old Vicarage, Leigh-upon-Mendip, Somerset
Pricing: £200 for one person, £360 for a booking of two people (this discount will automatically apply on checkout)
Includes: Tuition, tools overview, all refreshments, seated lunch, goody bag
Spaces are limited and this course books quickly – early booking is recommended.
About Pennard Plants
A specialist nursery rooted in Somerset, known for its rare and heritage varieties of edible and ornamental plants. From ancient fruit trees to heirloom vegetables, the nursery champions biodiversity, sustainable growing, and self-sufficiency. Through expert-led courses and collaborations, Pennard Plants helps gardeners of all levels connect with the rhythms of nature and the pleasures of growing food from seed to plate.
Join us for a one-day, hands-on masterclass in an idyllic working kitchen garden nestled in the Mendip Hills near Frome. This immersive experience will show you how to revitalise and increase the productivity of your apple, pear, quince and other top-fruit trees.
If you cannot make this 10th September masterclass then it is also being repeated the week before (on 4th September).
Led by renowned plantsman Chris Smith, owner of Pennard Plants, the day includes expert demonstrations on pruning bush, espalier, and mature tree forms. You’ll also learn how to renovate aging trees that have fallen into low fruiting, as well as master the theory of pruning and tool maintenance.
This practical workshop includes:
Hands-on planting and initial pruning of bare-root trees
Working with a wide variety of established fruit trees
A session on sharpening and caring for your secateurs – bring your favourites and a pair of gloves!
Expert tuition, suitable for beginners and those wishing to refine their pruning skills
Hosted by Neil Crump, (Asterion & Co. founder) at The Old Vicarage, Leigh upon Mendip – a beautifully reimagined 16th-century farmhouse with eclectic, design-led interiors. It’s a relaxed yet inspiring setting for the day, with a seated garden lunch of seasonal produce, plus home-made treats and refreshments throughout.
The afternoon wraps up with a relaxed garden tour and optional game of pétanque (French boules).
Guests will take home a goody bag including a Winter Pruning Guide authored by Chris himself, a fruit tree, Neil’s favourite book about how Brit’s became gardening obsessed. Most importantly you’ll have acquired the knowledge and confidence to improve the health and yield of your own fruit trees.
Masterclass Details
Date: Wednesday 10th September 2025
Time: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location: The Old Vicarage, Leigh-upon-Mendip, Somerset
Pricing: £200 for one person, £360 for a booking of two people (this discount will automatically apply on checkout)
Includes: Tuition, tools overview, all refreshments, seated lunch, goody bag
Spaces are limited and this course books quickly – early booking is recommended.
About Pennard Plants
A specialist nursery rooted in Somerset, known for its rare and heritage varieties of edible and ornamental plants. From ancient fruit trees to heirloom vegetables, the nursery champions biodiversity, sustainable growing, and self-sufficiency. Through expert-led courses and collaborations, Pennard Plants helps gardeners of all levels connect with the rhythms of nature and the pleasures of growing food from seed to plate.
