Fri 25th Sept

Department: Fruit

Raspberry training.

Picking with first year trainees who are doing their induction week, then scratting and pressing windfalls.
Photo 1: Apples are cut into chunks - put through a scratter pictured above, to make them into suitable and small enough pieces for juicing, then it is put through an apple press.
More notes on picking fruit like apples - one doesn't want to break stalks off, as that is where disease will enter. Windfalls should only be used for juicing or cider making, they will not store. Don't pile them up too high, fill short of top of crate.

Gerry gave a brief induction on sharpening secateurs:
- 7-8mm spanners can be used on Felcos.
- Use engine oil on oil stone.
- Sharpen bladed secateur bit at 25 - 30°
- Swipe 30 - 40 times.
- To get out zig zag, sharpen on side of stone until blunt.
- Getting burs out, press blade down.
- Heavily grease parts so that it doesn't wash out so easily and more virkon proof. WD40 is alcohol based so is too thin.