Muscadine and grape growers can get hands-on experience at a vine pruning workshop Feb. 12.

The Mississippi State University Extension Service is hosting the Muscadine Pruning Workshop from 10 a.m. to noon at the Beaumont Horticulture Unit, part of the Mississippi Agricultural andForestry Experiment Station.

Experts from MSU’s Extension Service, MAFES and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service will discuss vine anatomy, reasons to prune, timing of pruning and how to prune. They will demonstrate small-scale pruning with gas-powered hedge trimmersand traditional hand pruning.

“Participants will have an opportunity to practice pruning a vine if they bring pruning shears,” said Eric Stafne, MSU Extension fruit crops specialist. “They should also bring gloves and protective eye gear -- goggles or sunglasses.”

The pruning workshop is free, and pre-registration is not required. The entire workshop will take place in the vineyard, rain or shine, so participants are encouraged to dress accordingly.

For more information, contact Stafne at (601) 403-8939 or e-mail [email protected]. The Beaumont Horticulture Unit is located in Perry County at 478 Highway 15, Beaumont, Miss.