Growing a plum tree in your backyard can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. With proper preparation and care, you can enjoy a beautiful flowering tree with delicious fruit.
To begin, let's describe some characteristics of the plum tree. It is a deciduous tree, which loses its leaves in autumn, features striking white or pink flowers that create a beautiful visual spectacle and attract pollinators.
It produces plums, delicious fruits packed with vitamins. A juicy and sweet fruit that ranges in color from yellow to dark red or purple, depending on the variety.
It is a highly prized tree for its ornamental value, especially during flowering. Some other common names for the plum tree: plum tree, pruno, prunero.
Its scientific name is Prunus domestica. It is a tree native to the Caucasus and Asia Minor. The name "plum" comes from the Latin "cereola", which means wax-colored, in reference to the color of some of the varieties.
Below, we'll research and provide a guide on how to plant a plum tree.
Location for the plum tree
The first step in growing a plum tree is selecting the right location in your garden. They should be planted in an area that receives direct sunlight for at least six hours a day.
It's also important to avoid locations exposed to spring frosts, as this can damage the flowers. If you live in a warm climate, select a location where it can be protected from the afternoon sun in summer.
Prepare the soil
You have to examine the soil where you are going to plant it, it must be well drained and have a pH between 6,0 and 7,0. If soil pH is too short or too tall, the tree may be less productive.
To condition the soil you can add a good organic matter such as manureYou have to let the soil rest for six weeks.
Planting the plum tree
Once the soil is prepared, you are ready to plant the plum tree. Start by digging a hole that is twice as wide and just half as deep as the root ball of the tree.
Place the tree in the hole and cover it with soil. Try to press the soil firmly around the tree to eliminate any air pockets. Finally, water the tree generously. The soil should reach 5 to 10 cm above the roots.
Tree care
irrigation and fertilizer
Now that you have the tree planted it is important to add a layer of mulch around the base of the tree. This will help retain moisture and prevent weeds from growing around the tree.
Make sure to water your plum tree thoroughly and abundantly once a week. This tree needs sufficient watering to grow faster and healthier.
As the tree grows you can reduce the frequency of watering, but always You need to water deeply and focus on the root zone. to encourage development that grows strong and deep, This way it will be able to withstand periods of drought well.
As for fertilization, you will need a multipurpose fertilizer slow-release fertilizer in early spring. You must wait until the tree begins to bear fruit to do this. Too much fertilizer can cause excessive foliage growth. minimizing fruit production.
Pruning
Pruning is also an important part of plum tree care. You should prune your tree in early spring to remove damaged or dead wood, which will help promote new growth and improve the tree's health and productivity.
You can shorten branches that grow too long or buy dwarf varieties to reduce this work.
Common pests and diseases of plum trees
Pest control is essential, and in deciduous trees, the dormant period is when pests will attack.
The most important thing for plum tree care is the birds, which eat the plums just when they are ripe. You have to protect it with a net or protect the fruits individually.
A common disease faced by plum trees is silver leaf, which attacks plum trees when pruned in winter. It can leave a silvery sheen on the leaves and seriously damage the tree.
To prevent this, it's best to prune plum trees in summer to significantly reduce the disease. Other pests that can attack them include moths, aphids, beetles, and other insects.
To avoid pests, you have to intervene in time, Be alert to the signs and act quickly to prevent spread to the entire tree.
Proper watering and fertilization can strengthen the tree's natural defenses, reducing its vulnerability to pests.
Reap the fruits
Knowing when to harvest plums is crucial to ensuring perfect ripeness and a uniquely sweet, slightly acidic flavor. Harvesting too early or too late can result in a loss of flavor.
Plums are generally ready to harvest from late summer through autumn, depending on your geographic location and the variety you have chosen.
A good tip is to examine the skin of the fruit, If it is ripe, it should feel soft when lightly squeezed. and must be detached from the branch with a quick twist.
The color of the skin is another indicator of ripeness, which also depends on the variety. So is the taste test. Remember that plums don't sweeten much after harvest; if the flavor is good, it's time to harvest.
How to harvest plums without damaging the tree
It requires care since the fruits are very delicate and a rough harvest can bruise them and leave marks on the tree. Remember that it is important, because If you damage the branches you can cause stress and create risks of pests and diseases.
Once you've identified ripe plums, hold each fruit in your hand and gently twist it. The plum will easily detach from the branch, indicating it's ready to be picked. You can use a container to prevent it from falling on the floor and getting damaged.
To store them, you can keep them in the refrigerator, which is the best option. They should be kept in a cool place with a relative humidity of 90 to 95% and a temperature between -0,5°C and 0°C. Under these conditions, they can be stored for 2 to 4 weeks.
It is a very versatile fruit that you can now use to prepare jams, cakes, ice creams, the possibilities are endless.
Growing a plum tree is a wonderful way to add beauty and delicious fruit to your garden. With proper preparation and care, even beginners can grow a beautiful and productive plum tree.
What are you waiting for? Start growing your own plum tree today. You'll love having plums packed with nutrients and exquisite flavor to enjoy whenever you want, right in your own garden.