This spring, the Horticulture Agent hosted a very popular workshop: “Grafting Heirloom Apple Trees.” More than 20 participants from diverse backgrounds gathered to learn the ancient art of grafting. The class focused on preserving a rare, easy-to-grow,  local apple variety only known as a Spice Apple.   Attendees learned how to graft scion wood from local trees onto hardy rootstock. By the end of the class, each participant went home with two grafted apple trees of their own—each carrying a piece of Washington County history.

The class was a hands-on mix of tradition and science. Attendees learned to identify viable scion wood, practiced precise grafting cuts, and mastered the delicate technique of binding and sealing grafts to ensure success. The Horticulture Agent cut scion wood from a participant's tree that was a sprout from a tree planted originally by her grandfather in the 1800s. Participants heard origin stories, flavor profiles, and the importance in preserving genetic diversity. For many attendees, this wasn’t just a gardening lesson; it was an opportunity to connect with the history of Washington County.

Feedback from the workshop was overwhelmingly positive. Participants expressed excitement not only about the practical skills they gained but also the sense of purpose they felt in helping to preserve heirloom apple varieties. Several have already reached out to report that their grafts are budding successfully. Due to high demand, the agent plans to expand the program next year to include follow-up sessions on orchard care and heirloom apple tasting. The grafting class proved that with a little care and community, even lost apples can find new life.