The Japanese Apricot Tree (Prunus mume)
El prunus mume, commonly known as japanese apricot treeIt is a deciduous tree native to southern Japan and widely cultivated in China. This species is prized for both its beautiful flowers and its fruits. Although growing the Japanese apricot tree may require experience, the results will be worth it thanks to its beauty and hardiness.
Botanical Characteristics
The Japanese apricot tree belongs to the family of rosacea, which includes more than 200 species of trees and shrubs. This tree can reach 5 to 9 meters in height and has a dark gray trunk with green juvenile branches. Its leaves are oval and pointed, with serrated edges and are deciduous.
The flowers are especially notable; they bloom from white to deep pink, they have five petals and they develop before the leaves appear, giving them a stunning appearance at the beginning of spring.
Growing Conditions
Location
The Japanese apricot tree should be grown outdoors in full sun year-round. However, care must be taken during the higher temperatures, avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. It's essential to find a suitable location and not move it once it's established, as moving it can stress the tree. For more information on ideal growing conditions, see the types of Prunus.
In particular, during transplantation, you should avoid placing the tree in full sun, at least during three or four weeksA well-lit location, but without direct sunlight, is best to aid recovery.
Irrigation
El irrigation It is essential for the healthy growth of the Japanese apricot tree. It should be watered whenever the soil surface dries out, ensuring that the water reaches the roots. Avoid waterlogging, as this can cause root rotExcessive moisture can be fatal to the tree. Using a watering can with fine holes allows for better penetration of water into the substrate.
It is important to remember that although these trees can tolerate brief periods of drought, they require proper maintenance of moisture, especially during active growth in spring and autumn.
Fertilizer
Fertilizer should be done regularly with a quality organic product, especially during the spring and fall, periods of active growth. It is recommended to reduce the amount of fertilizer in winter and summer, since during these periods the tree has little or no growth. To encourage the fructification and reduce the size of the leaves, it is advisable to use a fertilizer richer in phosphorus (P) y potassium (K) than in nitrogen (N). The latter encourages excessive leaf growth, which is undesirable.
It is essential not to fertilize a transplanted tree until it sprouts, as well as to avoid watering immediately after frost or when frost is expected. temperatures below zero.
Transplant
The Japanese apricot tree should be repotted every 1 to 2 years for young specimens and each 3 to 5 years For older ones, this procedure is best performed in spring, just after flowering and before buds begin to emerge.
When carrying out the transplant, it is vital Healthy relationships any rotten roots and prune away unwanted branches. Avoiding excessive root pruning is key to preventing damage to the tree. If many roots are removed, an equal amount of leaves should be removed to balance the tree.
The ideal substrate for the Japanese apricot tree is a mixture containing 80% mulch and 20% coarse-grained sand or equivalent material such as volcanic soil. Make sure the pot is new and clean.
Images of apricot tree transplantation and care
Pruning and Pinching
Pruning is an essential practice for shaping the Japanese apricot tree, and should generally be done after flowering. Branches can be cut or topped during active growth, always leaving two or three yolks on each branch. This growth control is vital for future flowering.
It is important to keep in mind that the way in which pruning is carried out can directly influence the quality of the flowering Next year. Towards the end of autumn, flower buds are already visible and can be identified on older branches. However, during the first years of development (3 to 5 years), it's advisable to focus on branching rather than flowering.
Diseases and Pests
There are various pests that can affect the Japanese apricot tree. Some of the most common are:
- Woodlouse: This insect feeds on tree sap and can cause significant damage.
- Gums: This is a condition caused by physiological disorders that often manifests as the discharge of yellow or brown gum. Treatment can be complicated.
- Aphid: This sucking insect also attacks apricot trees, especially young shoots and densely populated areas.
To prevent the appearance of these pests and diseases, it is essential to maintain a suitable growing environment and regularly monitor the tree's condition. Proper cultivation minimizes the need for chemical treatments that can cause adverse effects.
Reproduction
The Japanese apricot tree can be propagated in several ways:
- Seeds: From mid-autumn to late winter. Seeds should be cleaned and stratified in the refrigerator to improve germination. It is advisable to refrigerate the seeds during 48 hours before sowing them.
- Cuttings: They can be taken from young stems in late autumn and have shown good rooting results with adequate heat.
- Layer: It is also possible to reproduce the tree by layering in summer.
Germinating seeds and rooting cuttings are effective methods, but they require patience and care to ensure success. Proper management at every stage of reproduction is essential.
Uses and Curiosities
In the ornamental field, the prunus mume It is highly valued for its fragrant and beautiful flowers, making it a focal point in gardens and parks. These trees have been admired in Japanese culture and literature throughout the centuries, featuring prominently in festivals and celebrations related to their blooms.
Some interesting facts about the Japanese apricot tree include:
- Its symbolism: In Eastern culture, flowers symbolize hope and perseverance.
- Culinary uses: Although its fruit is not as common as the apricot, Prunus mume fruits are used to make liqueur and brine.
- A history tree: It has been cultivated in Asia for over a thousand years for its ornamental qualities.
For those interested in learning more about bonsai growing and care, there are numerous resources and communities that offer support and education.
I have a copy of Mume with pink leaves. I want to know how to prune it. I have it next to the gallery and it gives me a very good shadow. It is so vigorous that I would like to shape it.
Hello Maria Celia.
To prune an apricot tree, the ideal is to wait until spring has just begun, before it blooms.
Once it arrives, those branches that intersect must be removed, and those that have had an excessive growth must be cut, trying to give it a slightly paralyzed shape. Anyway, if you want, upload a photo showing the whole tree to tinypic or imageshack and copy the link here, and I'll tell you how much to prune.
A greeting.
Good afternoon
Can you sell me some soul or speech? da prunus mume?
Or meu e.mail e paula.cp_48@sapo.pt
E send to Portugal?
Thank you
I have one a year ago and it does not exceed 25 cm, now some sheets have been cleared. what dou you recommend. thank you