In May of 1975 a group of hobby orchardists gathered at Larry McGraw's experimental garden in southeast Portland. Out of this event grew, these 59 charter members grew a new nonprofit, educational and self-help organization that today has well over 700 members scattered worldwide. The vision of "growing good fruit at home" has taken root.
The Home Orchard Society exists to assist both novice and expert growers and to promote the science, culture and pleasure of growing fruit.
In addition the society encourages the preservation of full flavored, vintage and heirloom fruit varieties.
As each member of the society contributes and shares their own orchard practices, experiments and discoveries, they benefit not only home orchardists, but also many commercial and scientific endeavors.
Each year Home Orchard Society sponsors several events for the general public, such as the Spring Scion Exchange and the Fall All About Fruit Show. Members of Home Orchard Society receive:
The Home Orchard Society is a 501c(3) corporation.