Creating a "Tree of 40 Fruit" with Sam Van Aken

Creating a "Tree of 40 Fruit" with Sam Van Aken

Author: Susan Poizner, OrchardPeople.com February 18, 2021 Duration: 44:00

Sam Van Aken is an award winning artist and an associate professor in the Art Department of Syracuse University who uses grafting techniques to create his "Tree of 40 Fruit" art installations across North America.  His trees will grow multiple different types of fruits including peaches, plums, apricots, nectarines, cherries and almonds.

Additional resources:
To see a 10-minute video excerpt from the show, click here.
This month's recommended resource: The Old Farmer’s Almanac 2021 Garden Guide

The host of the Orchard People radio show and podcast is Susan Poizner of the fruit tree care education website http://www.orchardpeople.com.

 

Formerly known as the Urban Forestry Radio Show, from germination in January 2016 until December 2023, we have grown over the years, thanks to the collective knowledge and collaboration of our monthly guests, organizations, and audience from around the world.

 

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  • (00:00) - Introduction to Fruit Tree Planting
  • (01:19) - Introducing the Tree of 40 Fruit
  • (01:49) - Meet Sam Van Aken
  • (02:36) - The Art and Science of Grafting
  • (06:10) - Exhibiting the Tree of 40 Fruit
  • (08:07) - Grafting Techniques and Challenges
  • (08:55) - Listener Questions and Expert Answers: rootstock, interstock, history and surprising downside of multi grafted trees
  • (18:56) - Global Interest and Community Feedback
  • (22:14) - Exploring Stone Fruits and Grafting
  • (23:45) - Challenges of Growing Fruit Trees
  • (27:02) - Grafting Techniques and Compatibility
  • (31:22) - Customization and Historical Projects
  • (33:38) - Indoor Fruit Tree Cultivation
  • (35:19) - Art and Horticulture: A Personal Journey
  • (39:19) - Final Thoughts and Audience Questions

Imagine stepping into your own backyard and picking a perfect, sun-warmed apple from a tree you nurtured yourself. That tangible connection to the land and the deep satisfaction of growing your own food is at the heart of Orchard People. Hosted by fruit tree care educator Susan Poizner, this podcast digs into the practical and often surprising world of cultivating fruit trees, whether you have a few pots on a balcony or several acres to explore. Each episode feels like a thoughtful conversation with a knowledgeable friend, as Susan and her guests unpack the nuances of pruning for better harvests, managing pests without harsh chemicals, and understanding the life beneath our feet through soil health. You’ll hear from specialists on topics like grafting heirloom varieties, designing resilient food forests, and integrating permaculture principles into any space. It’s more than just tips and tricks; it’s about building confidence and community around sustainable growing. Tune in to this garden-focused podcast for grounded advice that helps both new and experienced growers foster healthier trees and more abundant yields, season after season.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 123

Orchard People
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In recent years, there has been a lot of talk about how biochar can help boost the carbon levels in your soil. But what is biochar and how is it made? How is biochar different than other types of soil amendments? And is…