Cultivating Success
The Twigeeze Limb Spreaders by Miller Creek
From farmer's frustration to orchard game-changer, Twigeeze limb spreaders by Miller Creek are cultivating healthier, more productive trees in community orchards across the US. Join The Giving Grove as we explore the power of innovation in growing a future where everyone can harvest their own fruitful bounty. If you enjoy this blog, consider subscribing to The Serving, Giving Grove’s quarterly newsletter.
In the world of community orchards, the right tools can make all the difference. The Giving Grove, a nonprofit dedicated to green space equity and local food systems, has been fortunate to collaborate with exceptional partners and offer opportunities for program managers in our network to access orchard supplies through our vendor relationships. A great example of vendor relationships is Miller Creek. One of their valued contributions to our network is the innovative Twigeeze limb spreaders, designed to foster healthier and more productive fruit trees.
The Genesis of Twigeeze: A Farmer's Solution
Miller Creek, founded by the visionary Fred Sorensen, has been a steadfast supporter of The Giving Grove for years. Fred, a retired farmer with four daughters, brought his extensive experience in manufacturing and agriculture to address a specific challenge. When central leader training for mechanically harvested cherries gained popularity, Fred planted 5,000 Montmorency whips on 5 acres. Facing the need to train these trees effectively, he devised a solution – the Twigeeze limb spreader.
The Twigeeze Advantage: Nurturing Strong and Fruitful Trees
The Twigeeze limb spreaders became a game-changer in orchard management. These plastic limb spreaders were designed to position branches, encouraging stronger crotch angles and preventing heavily fruit-laden branches from breaking or splitting. The benefits extend beyond structural support, they also help enhance light penetration to the tree's center and resulting in higher quality fruit.
Looking Ahead with Miller Creek: Innovation and Collaboration
Miller Creek continues to look into the future to best serve customer needs. Fred Sorensen envisions the future with two longer spreaders and eagerly awaits customer interest to initiate the production of these new products. Additionally, customers can explore the Stake-eeze tree stake system, available at Stark Bros – a nursery that collaborates with The Giving Grove network.
Reflecting on the partnership with The Giving Grove, Fred expresses his belief in the importance of community gardens and groves. "I have been a believer in Giving Grove's business model," he says. Having visited various orchards and interacted with the dedicated staff, Fred emphasizes the significance of helping people gain the education, resources, and support they need to grow their own fruits, nuts, and berries. Fred admires The Giving Grove’s success in making orcharding accessible to communities across the U.S.
Twigeeze limb spreaders by Miller Creek stand as a testament to the power of innovation in supporting community orchards. As The Giving Grove continues to thrive with partners like Miller Creek, the impact on green space equity and local food systems resonates strongly, cultivating a future where everyone has the opportunity to cultivate their own fruitful harvests.
Fred Sorenson & Barbi Hill, Developer of the Twigeeze and other products at Miller Creek