Through the Maine Gardening Series, the University of Maine Cooperative Extension in Cumberland County has several horticulture courses planned for this spring and summer.

These include “Pruning for Fun and for Profit”; “Managing a Home Orchard”; “Earth-Friendly Landscaping”; “Right Plant, Right Place”; “Successful Organic Vegetable Gardening”; “Wildflower and Common Plant Identification”; and “Touring Maine’s Garden Gems.”

These gardening courses are designed for the general public. Participants will be provided an abundance of reference materials that complement field experiences and hands-on learning.

For a complete list of courses and registration information, contact the Cumberland County Extension Office at 1-800-287-1471 or visit the Web site at www.umext.maine.edu. Click on the “Maine Gardening Series” button. Class size is limited so early registration is advised.

Two of the courses begin in March. “Pruning for Fun and for Profit” includes field sessions located at an apple orchard, a highbush blueberry planting site, and at a woodlot. Participants will learn how, why and when to prune trees and shrubs. Pruning can be a saleable skill. The course is taught by extension professor Richard Brzozowski.

The other course that is scheduled to begin in March is “Managing a Home Orchard.” This course equips home gardeners with the skills and knowledge to plant and maintain a successful home orchard from spring to fall. The course is team-taught with specialists, educators, and a pest management scientist from the University of Maine.

Class size is limited in order to provide a quality learning experience. Spaces for participation are filling fast so we advise you to register soon if interested in registering for any of these courses.