A good fruit tree should not make a good shade tree. The primary purpose of pruning is to increase sunlight penetration, remove less productive wood, and shape the crown into an efficient, stable form. A neglected but otherwise healthy tree will usually show a marked improvement in fruit quality as a result of pruning. Join apple expert John Bunker of Fedco Trees in Waterville, Maine, for an apple tree pruning workshop at the Polly Hill Arboretum in Martha’s Vineyard on Saturday, March 9, from 10 – 2. Find out how to give an old tree new life and what kind of yearly pruning maintenance will keep your fruit trees producing year after year. This workshop begins with a talk on fruit tree pruning then heads outside to a near-by orchard for hands-on pruning. Bring your pruners, lopers and/or pruning saw if you have them. Also bring a brown bag lunch.  $55/$45 for PHA members. Register at www.pollyhillarboretum.org.