Plums are a personal favorite of mine, making it fortunate that they’re one of the more accessible fruit trees to cultivate. Compared to other popular options like apples and cherries, growing plums is relatively low-maintenance. Furthermore, there’s an impressive array of plum varieties that can thrive in diverse climates, increasing the chances of finding one suited to your specific environment. These hardy and productive trees offer a bountiful harvest even on dwarf specimens.
But what truly sets plums apart is their stunning appearance and alluring fragrance during springtime, when they’re adorned with showy white and pink blossoms. As an added bonus, plums are stone fruits, like peaches and apricots, making them equally delightful when enjoyed fresh off the tree, incorporated into savory recipes, or baked into sweet treats.
Plum Varieties
While plums come in a wide range of varieties, they can generally be grouped into four main categories: European, Japanese, hybrid, and American. Each type boasts its unique characteristics, making the choice between them a matter of personal preference.
European Plums
European plums are a versatile variety that can thrive in a range of soil types, including heavy clay. They have a distinct oval shape, with soft skin and sweet flesh that makes them perfect for snacking fresh or using in preserves. While they may not be as cold-hardy as some hybrid varieties, European plums have several advantages – they’re resistant to common diseases like brown rot, black knot, and fungi.
Additionally, they can tolerate a range of temperatures, making them suitable for growing in zones 4-8.
One notable aspect of European plums is their self-fertility, which means you don’t need to plant multiple trees for pollination. However, planting another variety can still improve your yields and expand your harvest dates.
If you’re looking to try out some new plum varieties, here are a few popular options:
Stanley: This well-known European plum is a multipurpose tree that’s great for eating fresh or canned. Its medium-to-large oval fruits have yellow flesh that’s incredibly sweet, making them perfect for drying into prunes. Stanley trees are highly productive and typically start bearing fruit within three years.
Green Gage (also known as Reine Claude): If you’re looking to make plum pudding or preserves, this sweet plum is a must-try. It has yellow-green skin and is semi-freestone, making it ideal for cooking. Interestingly, the Green Gage variety originated in Armenia over 500 years ago and is prized for its sweet flavor.
Japanese Plums
Japanese plums, with their rounded shape, are a staple in many savory dishes. While they may not be as resilient to cold temperatures as some other varieties, they thrive in regions where peaches are commonly grown. Among the Japanese plum species, Methley is particularly well-liked for its compact, upright growth habit, making it an ideal choice for smaller yards. Its dwarf forms can reach heights of 8-10 feet, and its medium-sized fruits boast juicy red flesh perfect for fresh consumption.
With a suitable climate in zones 6-9, Methley plums are sure to flourish. Another popular Japanese plum variety is Shiro, characterized by its stunning yellow hue and striking contrast with its olive green leaves. While sensitive to cold temperatures, Shiro plums are highly productive and do well in zones 6-9.
Hybrid Plums
Hybrid plums are a fascinating fusion of Asian and American plum species. Their hardiness allows them to thrive in cold climates, but they do require a pollinator friend to produce fruit. Some notable cultivars include the South Dakota Plum, Pipestone, and Bruce Plum.
The South Dakota Plum is a standout variety that has earned its place among my favorites. After just six years, my tree produces well and boasts a beautiful appearance.
The fruit may be smaller than some other varieties, but its yellow/ red blush skin and sweet, juicy flesh make it a true delight. As a freestone plum, the flesh doesn’t cling to the pit, making it ideal for canning and other culinary uses. Its extended bloom period also makes it an excellent pollinator for other hybrid plums. With a hardiness range of zones 3-8, this variety is suitable for many gardeners.
Pipestone Plum is another exceptional and hardy option.
Its deep red skin and thick yellow flesh make it a stunning addition to any orchard or kitchen. While it’s classified as a clingstone plum, its fresh eating flavor is simply divine, making it a crowd-pleaser among family and friends.
Last but not least, the Bruce Plum deserves mention for its unique characteristics. I stumbled upon this sapling at Tractor Supply during an end-of-year sale and was thrilled with my find.
The fruit produced by this tree has a slightly tart flavor that’s perfect for jam-making or other recipes.
American Plums
Native to dense woodlands across the United States, American plums, also referred to as wild plums, are a valuable asset for hybrid plum cultivation. Their hardiness allows them to flourish throughout the continental region. Beyond their role as an excellent pollinator, American plums offer aesthetic value as a landscaping tree, boasting stunning white blooms in the spring and vibrant red foliage during fall.
Planting Plums
Zones
While it’s possible to cultivate plums across a broad range of climates, these fruits typically thrive in USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 10. This moderate temperature range allows the trees to establish robust root systems and produce an abundance of fruit.
Sun Requirements
When cultivating plums, it’s essential to provide them with an ideal environment that includes a location bathed in full sunlight. Aim for at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight exposure daily, as this will enable the fruit trees to thrive and produce an abundance of juicy plums.
Soil Requirements
For optimal growth, provide plums with sandy or loamy soil that has a pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. While well-drained fertile soil is ideal, plums are relatively tolerant of varying conditions. Before planting, incorporate compost into the mix for added nutrients. It’s crucial to give your young plum tree a strong foundation, and this starts with the right soil. Check out my comprehensive guide on creating the perfect soil mixture for new fruit trees.
Spacing
When it comes to planting trees, proper spacing is crucial for their health and growth. Dwarf trees require the most intimate spacing, with a distance of 10-20 feet between each tree. Semi-dwarf trees can be planted slightly farther apart, at a distance of 15 feet from one another. Standard trees, on the other hand, need a bit more room to breathe, with a recommended spacing of 20-25 feet. And to ensure maximum cross-pollination, it’s essential not to plant trees more than 50 feet apart.
Cluster
Planting
When it comes to planting plum trees, Fedco suggests a unique approach: clustering. This means placing your trees closer together than usual, with branches touching. Specifically, plant your plum trees 3-6 feet apart for optimal results. Additionally, consider incorporating one American plum tree for every four hybrid plums to maximize production.
Putting Plums in the Ground
When cultivating plums, it’s essential to provide them with a sheltered location that receives direct sunlight from the south or southwest. In my own orchard, I’ve placed mine in the central section, where they’re protected from the surrounding apples and pears. This strategic placement has proven to be effective in promoting healthy growth. For optimal results, I highly recommend watching this informative video on digging the perfect planting hole for plums.
When it’s time to plant your plum tree, be sure to give due attention to the graft union. Typically, fruit trees purchased from nurseries will arrive with a grafted stem, featuring a noticeable bump on the bark. To ensure proper growth and development, make sure to plant your tree in a way that leaves about one inch of the graft union above the soil level.
Pollination
When it comes to plum cultivation, pollination plays a crucial role. To ensure successful pollination, it’s essential to consider the bloom times of different varieties and plant them in a way that ensures compatibility. Washington State University offers a useful pollination chart to help with this process.
Having bees on hand can significantly boost your plum harvest. If you’re not a beekeeper yourself, there are still ways to attract native bees to your orchard.
Simply provide them with a safe and welcoming environment by building or installing housing structures for them. Additionally, offering a shallow dish of water is a thoughtful touch that will help keep these important pollinators healthy.
Caring For Your Plums
Fertilizing
Your Plums
Plum trees require a significant amount of nitrogen, making fertilization an essential practice for optimal growth and development. To address this need, I employ a two-pronged approach: in the fall, I apply a generous layer of organic compost around my tree’s base, allowing it to slowly release its nutrients over time. Come spring, I supplement this effort by spraying young leaves with fish emulsion, providing an immediate boost of essential micronutrients.
The health and vitality of your plum tree can be gauged by observing its annual growth patterns. Young trees should exhibit a steady increase in new green growth during the growing season, with a typical annual gain of 3-4 inches of healthy foliage.
Watering
To ensure your young plum trees thrive in their initial two years, it’s essential to provide consistent moisture. Aiming for about an inch of water per week, you can either rely on natural rainfall or supplement with a thorough soaking from the hose every 10-14 days. Avoid frequent shallow waterings, as this can lead to inefficient root development and other issues.
Pruning
Pruning plays a crucial role in stimulating tree growth, shaping its structure, and ultimately enhancing fruit production. When it comes to European plums, their upright nature necessitates the central leader method of pruning. This approach involves cultivating one strong trunk running up the center of the tree, forming a pyramid shape. To achieve optimal results, prune the tree to encourage the development of lateral branches off its sides.
In contrast, Japanese plums require a vase-shaped pruning technique. By selecting three main scaffold limbs and allowing them to grow in an upright manner, you can create a full and well-balanced shape.
Spraying Plums
When it comes to maintaining a healthy plum tree, regular organic spraying is crucial. Aim for at least three applications per year, spaced out across different stages of growth. Consider targeting late winter when your trees are dormant, early spring as buds start to emerge, and mid-summer when fruit begins to form. Some effective organic spray options include Surround, neem-based formulas, and Spinosad.
Plum Problems and Solutions
Crown Gall
Agrobacterium tumefaciens, a bacterium responsible for crown gall, significantly affects numerous fruit trees. The telltale signs of this disease are wart-like growths, known as galls, that develop on the tree’s roots and crown. These unsightly lesions can impede growth by restricting the tree’s access to essential water and nutrients.
Interestingly, the pathogen enters the tree through wounds or openings in the tree’s natural defenses, underscoring the importance of caution when handling fruit trees like plums. To prevent the spread of crown gall, it is crucial to exercise extreme care when working with your plum trees.
Bacterial Canker
Bacterial canker often manifests in the spring, when you may notice a decline in limb growth and the presence of cankers on your tree’s branches. Additionally, you might spot an amber-colored sap oozing out. This bacterial disease typically spreads through water and is more prevalent in areas where moisture tends to collect, such as low-lying spots or areas with poor drainage. A stressed tree is particularly susceptible to infection, making it crucial to prioritize tree health.
Ensure your trees receive consistent watering and nutrient-rich care, while also keeping nematode populations under control.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew, a collective term for various fungal infections, targets plum fruit and leaves. In spring, you’ll notice white powdery growths on the fruit, which later spreads to the leaves during summer. To prevent this issue, treat your trees with fungicides during the blossoming stage. If you spot mildew in spring or summer after the blossoms have faded, it’s too late to take action, so plan ahead for next year’s treatment.
Several fungicide options are available, including neem oil-based products. Interestingly, neem oil not only controls fungal growth but also stimulates a tree’s natural defense mechanisms.
Plum
Curculio
The plum curculio, a small brownish grey beetle, is a notorious pest that can wreak havoc on plum trees. The adults lay eggs inside the fruit, which then hatch into larvae that tunnel into the plum’s flesh. This often leads to premature dropping of the plums from the tree. To combat this issue, farmers and gardeners have found two effective methods.
Firstly, laying large pieces of cardboard under the plum trees can help smother the pupae of the beetle, preventing them from emerging in future seasons. Secondly, planting garlic near the tree can act as a natural repellent, deterring the beetles from approaching the area. Interestingly, Surround (kaolin clay) is an excellent tool for controlling the plum curculio, as well as providing overall protection against other pests that might be lurking nearby.
This substance works by forming a protective layer on the leaves and bark of the tree, making it difficult for the beetles to land or feed.
Black
Knot
Black knot, an unwelcome and unsightly affliction, can appear on tree branches like a dark, gelatinous mass, obstructing vital fluid flow and potentially threatening the tree’s very survival. This insidious growth, also known as Cytospora chrysosperma, can cause significant damage if left unchecked.
Prevention is key in combating black knot. When selecting new trees for planting, ensure that they are free from disease by opting for high-quality, disease-tested stock.
To further reduce the risk of infection, spray trees with a fungicide as soon as bud breaks and continue treatment until petals have fallen. Copper-based sprays have been shown to be particularly effective in controlling black knot.
Brown
Rot
Brown rot is a fungal disease that specifically targets stone fruits, unlike black rot which affects the tree’s growth. The condition causes the development of unsightly, moldy-looking rotten spots on the fruit as it grows. To combat this issue, it’s essential to regularly inspect your trees and promptly remove any infected branches to prevent the spread of the disease. Additionally, pruning your trees to improve air circulation can help reduce the risk of brown rot.
If these measures are unsuccessful in preventing the growth of brown rot, consider spraying your trees with a fungicide to provide an extra layer of protection.
Plum Borer
Borers, which are brown caterpillars with distinctive brown heads, can cause significant damage by tunneling into tree trunks, often at the crotch or near major branches. As they feed, a thick sap will typically emerge from the tree, signaling their presence to homeowners and gardeners. To effectively manage these pests, it’s essential to target your control efforts precisely at the entry points where the borers are first detected.
This can be achieved through the strategic application of a targeted pesticide, which should ideally be repeated several times throughout the growing season to ensure thorough coverage.
Leaf Roller
Leaf rollers, a type of moth larvae, exhibit diverse behavior and appearance. The species can be broadly classified into single-generation and two-generation types, characterized by their brown coloration ranging from light to dark hues. In their larval stage, they display an intriguing habit of rolling and tying plum leaves together to form protective shelters. As they feed on the leaves and fruits, they play a crucial role in shaping the ecosystem.
To manage these leaf rollers effectively, it’s essential to encourage natural predators such as spiders and parasitic wasps. Additionally, manual removal of rolled leaves can be an effective method. For chemical control, neem oil or kaolin spray can be employed.
For a more comprehensive approach, consider using spinosad-based products like Monterey Garden Spray. This active ingredient is particularly useful in combating moths and caterpillars that feed on fruit.
Cherry Fruit Fly
When it comes to plum-loving pests, certain species of small flies are notorious for laying their larvae in ripening plums. As these larvae mature, they burrow into the fruit to emerge. To effectively manage this issue, consider employing yellow sticky traps to capture the flies and utilizing kaolin or neem oil sprays as a natural deterrent.
Rose Chafer
The rose chafer beetle, while not typically harmful to plum trees, is a medium-sized insect that can be recognized by its pale green to tan coloration and distinctive orange legs. Its life cycle begins in May when it feeds on plum tree foliage until June, at which point it lays eggs. However, it’s essential to note the potential risks posed by these beetles: their excreted toxin is toxic to chickens and local birds.
For small infestations, a manual removal approach can be effective – simply handpick the beetles and drown them in soapy water. For larger infestations, a pyrethrin-based spray application may be necessary to control the population.
Japanese Beetle
Japanese beetles are notorious pests that wreak havoc on trees east of the Mississippi River. One of their most distinguishing features is their ability to skeletonize leaves, leaving behind a lacy, transparent foliage. To combat these unwanted guests, consider employing neem oil or pyrethrin-based sprays as a targeted solution. For a more hands-on approach, take matters into your own hands and manually pick off the beetles, then drown them in soapy water.
Alternatively, set up traps to capture the pests and prevent their spread. Additionally, cultivating beneficial nematodes can help deter Japanese beetle populations from establishing themselves around your tree.
Thrips
Thrips, tiny, dark brown or black insects, are notorious for their voracious appetite on fruit buds. Their larvae, conversely, appear as white, translucent entities. As they feast on tender foliage and fruit, they leave behind a trail of distorted leaves and discolored produce. The extent of the damage is often exacerbated by cooler growing seasons.
To diagnose the presence of thrips, simply shake a budding branch over a white cup.
A ratio of one thrip per two buds typically indicates a harmless infestation; however, if you find yourself with a higher ratio, it’s time to take out the heavy artillery.
Pruning back your trees after they’ve finished blooming is an effective method for containing thrips populations. Additionally, maintain a safe distance between your trees and broadleaf plants or weeds, as these can serve as breeding grounds for the pests.
Finally, consider applying neem oil or insecticidal soap to further mitigate the issue.
Scab
Fungal scab, a common affliction of stone fruits, manifests itself through mottled spotting on the surface of the affected fruit. If left unchecked, severe infestations can lead to stunted growth, misshapen and cracked fruits. To prevent this issue from getting out of hand, it’s essential to maintain good air circulation by pruning plants regularly, removing any infected twigs or branches, and ensuring trees receive adequate moisture at the base rather than overhead.
In most cases, a small infestation is easily treatable through simple washing or peeling of the fruit. However, if the problem persists or spreads, it may be necessary to employ fungicides to prevent further damage.
Birds
While cherries might be the primary target for many bird species, plums are often a close second in their pecking order. If the feathered creatures become overly enthusiastic about snacking on your plum trees, you may need to take measures to protect them, such as installing nets around the branches to deter unwanted visitors.
Companions for Growing Plums
When cultivating plum trees, consider incorporating certain plants to create a mutually beneficial environment. One effective approach is to surround your plum trees with lavender, which can help deter plum moths and other worm pests that feed on the fruit. This symbiotic relationship allows for a healthier and more productive harvest.
Another option is to grow plums alongside comfrey, as its extensive taproot helps to bring up essential nutrients from the soil, making them available to your plum trees. Additionally, comfrey’s flowers attract pollinators, further enhancing the growth of your plum trees. When selecting companion plants for your plums, consider pairing them with: garlic, nasturtium, strawberry, tansy, chamomile, chives, and marigold or borage.
On the other hand, avoid planting plums alongside black walnut, white pine, and hawthorns, as these combinations may hinder the growth of your plum trees.
Harvesting and Storing
To determine if your plums are ripe and ready for harvest, you should evaluate their firmness and flavor. A gentle squeeze will reveal whether they’re softening slightly; if so, it’s time to take the taste test. Sweetness is a clear indication that they’ve reached peak ripeness. Additionally, monitoring the plum’s color can be a useful indicator, although this may require some trial-and-error observation depending on the specific variety.
As you gain experience with your harvests, you’ll develop a keen sense of when the fruit has achieved its optimal color. Keep in mind that plums won’t all ripen simultaneously; it’s essential to check on their progress regularly throughout the growing season. This may involve daily or every-other-day inspections as the fruits approach maturity.
Once harvested, store your plums in a paper bag at room temperature for several days or transfer them to the refrigerator where they’ll keep for up to a week. If you’re not planning to consume them immediately, consider freezing fresh plums to preserve their flavor and nutritional value.
Cooking With Plums
While plums are incredibly versatile in the kitchen, one of their most delightful uses is in creating sweet and tangy treats. Have you ever ventured into the world of homemade fruit leather, where the natural sweetness of plums shines through? For my family, plum crisp is a beloved recipe that’s perfect for cozying up on a chilly evening. Moreover, a plum glaze adds a rich depth to meats, while its jam counterpart makes an excellent filling for tarts. The best part?
A bountiful harvest can be transformed into a delicious and meaningful way of sharing with loved ones through the creation of plum jam. So, what’s your go-to method for enjoying these luscious fruits?
