Michigan Pruning School
March 4, 2026 - March 5, 2026
Southwest Michigan -- Exact Location To Be Determined
Contact: Mike Reinke (reinkem3@msu.edu), Mike DeSchaaf (deschaa6@msu.edu) or Esmaeil Nasrollahiazar (nasroll2@msu.edu)
Details on sponsorships, registration costs and all logistical information will be released as soon as planning is finalized.
The Michigan Pruning School, led by the internationally renowned pruning masters Simonit & Sirch, is set to take place March 4-5, 2026, in southwest Michigan. This two-day, in-person workshop, followed by a dedicated spring webinar, is the beginning of a multi-year effort to bring world-class pruning education to Michigan’s grape and wine industry.
During the Michigan Pruning School sessions, participants will spend time both in the classroom and the vineyard. The course begins with a focused discussion on vine anatomy, pruning evolution and how traditional cutting methods can unintentionally lead to internal wood desiccation and reduced vine resilience. The majority of the workshop will take place in the vineyard, where growers will receive hands-on instruction in spur and cane pruning under the direct guidance of the Simonit & Sirch team. This individualized field training is essential, as growers learn not only where to cut, but how those decisions influence vine health over decades.
A live spring webinar scheduled for April or May will complete the program by covering shoot selection and thinning at the time these early-season decisions are important.
Because this training relies on direct interaction and personalized feedback, enrollment is limited to just 16 participants. This small group size ensures plenty of time with the instructors and a high-quality learning experience for everyone involved. Seats are expected to fill quickly, so keep an eye out for the registration announcement.
A large portion of the workshop’s cost will be supported through an MSU Project GREEEN educational initiative, which helps make the program more accessible for growers statewide. The event will also include a registration fee, and MSU Extension welcomes additional sponsorship opportunities from industry partners who wish to support this educational effort.
Growers who are members of the Michigan Grape Society or Parallel 45 Vine & Wine will receive special registration discounts, offering an excellent reason to renew memberships ahead of the event. These grower groups continue to play a vital role in strengthening viticulture education across the state.
Those interested in sponsoring the workshop are encouraged to reach out—this is an excellent opportunity to support pruning education and Michigan’s grape industry.
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