Apr 2, 2024Kentucky Nut Grower’s Association hosts spring meeting
On Saturday, April 20, 2024, nut enthusiasts from Kentucky and adjoining states will converge for the spring meeting of the Kentucky Nut Growers Association (KNGA). Hosted at the Kentucky State University Harold R. Benson Research and Demonstration Farm in Frankfort, the event promises a day filled with education, networking, and of course, nut appreciation.
The meeting kicks off at 10:00 a.m. EDT with a board meeting, membership visiting, and the highly anticipated nut display. Attendees will have the opportunity to examine a variety of nuts grown in the region, showcasing the richness of Kentucky’s nut-producing landscape.
A key highlight of the event is the KNGA Swap-Shop and Scion Wood Exchange, offering attendees the chance to obtain scarce scion wood for nut and fruit trees. Participants are encouraged to bring samples from their orchards, farms, or nurseries, ensuring a diverse exchange of plant material.
Dr. Nicole Gauthier will lead a session on common diseases of nut trees at 11:15 a.m., providing valuable insights for nut growers to protect their crops.
Following the educational sessions, attendees will enjoy a potluck luncheon at noon, with KNGA providing fried chicken and participants contributing side dishes. The event will also feature the KNGA Annual Spring Auction, where members can donate items from their orchards, farms, or nurseries to support the association.
The afternoon program includes a tour of the KSU Clonal Germplasm Repository for Pawpaw Planting, led by Dr. Kirk Pomper, Dr. Srijana Thapa-Magar, and Jeremy Lowe, offering attendees a unique insight into pawpaw cultivation.
Whether you’re a seasoned nut grower or simply have an interest in nut trees, all are welcome to attend this enriching event. For more information, contact John Strang, President of KNGA, at 859-396-9311.
Then from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. on May 4, the Pecan Grafting Demonstration event is open to interested individuals. Participants are encouraged to bring a lawn chair, pecan scion wood to swap and a picnic lunch. For more information, contact John Strang, president of KNGA. The demonstration will be held at Skip & Jennie Shearouse Pecan Farm located at 3474 State Route 1684 in Boaz, Kentucky.
