The Plum Planter: A Guide to Growing Delicious Plums

Oleh Jeffery Muller June 13, 2023 Post a Comment

Are you a fan of plums but tired of paying high prices for them at the grocery store? Why not grow your own! With the right tools and know-how, you can become a master plum planter. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about growing delicious plums.

Plums are a tasty and healthy fruit that are enjoyed around the world. They are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, making them an essential part of any healthy diet. However, finding fresh and juicy plums can be challenging, especially if you live in an area where they are not grown locally.

Growing your own plums is not only economical but also gives you the satisfaction of knowing exactly where your food comes from. Whether you have a small backyard or a large farm, you can grow plums with a little bit of effort and patience.

So, let's dive into the world of plum planting and explore the different aspects of plum cultivation.

Soil Preparation

The first step in growing plums is to prepare the soil. Plums prefer well-drained soil that is slightly acidic (pH 5.5-6.5) and rich in organic matter. If your soil is too alkaline, add sulfur or iron sulfate to lower the pH level. Incorporate compost, manure, or other organic matter to improve soil structure and fertility.

Plums thrive in full sun, so choose a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Make sure the soil is free of weeds, rocks, and debris before planting.

Plum Varieties

There are numerous varieties of plums available, each with its unique flavor, texture, and color. Some popular plum varieties include:

Santa Rosa: Medium-sized, reddish-purple skin, sweet and juicy flesh.
Methley: Small to medium-sized, reddish-purple skin, juicy and sweet flesh.
Early Golden: Small to medium-sized, yellow skin, sweet and flavorful flesh.
Satsuma: Small to medium-sized, dark red or purple skin, juicy and sweet flesh.

Choose a variety that is suitable for your climate and soil type. Consult with a local nursery or horticulturist for advice on the best plum varieties for your area.

Planting Plum Trees

Plum trees can be planted in the fall or early spring. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the root ball. Place the tree in the hole, making sure the graft union (the swollen area where the scion and the rootstock are joined) is above the soil line. Fill the hole with soil, tamp it down firmly, and water thoroughly.

Plum trees require regular watering, especially during the first few years of growth. Water deeply once a week, or more often during hot and dry weather.

Pruning

Pruning is essential for maintaining the health and productivity of plum trees. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Thin out crowded branches to allow air and sunlight to penetrate the tree's canopy.

Plum trees tend to produce a lot of fruitwood, which can lead to overcrowding and poor fruit quality. To prevent this, thin out excess fruitwood by removing some of the smaller branches.

Pest and Disease Control

Plum trees are susceptible to various pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, plum curculio, brown rot, and bacterial spot. To control these problems, use organic or chemical insecticides and fungicides, depending on the severity of the infestation. Consult with a local extension office or horticulturist for advice on pest and disease control.

Harvesting and Storage

Plums are ready for harvesting when they are fully ripe and have reached their full color. Most plums will ripen on the tree, but some varieties may require picking before they are fully ripe. Use a gentle twisting motion to remove the fruit from the tree.

Plums can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or frozen for long-term storage. To freeze plums, wash and pit them, cut them into slices or halves, and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.

Cooking with Plums

Plums are not only delicious but also versatile in cooking. They can be used in sweet and savory dishes, such as jams, pies, tarts, sauces, chutneys, and salads.

One popular recipe is plum cake, a traditional German dessert made with fresh plums, cinnamon, and almonds. To make plum cake, mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, eggs, vanilla, and milk. Pour the batter into a greased baking dish, arrange sliced plums on top, sprinkle with cinnamon and chopped almonds, and bake until golden brown.

Growing your own plums is a rewarding experience that requires patience, knowledge, and dedication. By following these tips, you can become a successful plum planter and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Remember to choose the right variety, prepare the soil properly, prune regularly, and control pests and diseases. With a little bit of effort, you can harvest juicy and flavorful plums that will satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How long does it take for a plum tree to produce fruit?

A: Plum trees usually producing fruit in their third or fourth year after planting.

Q2: Can I grow plums in containers?

A: Yes, you can grow dwarf plum trees in containers, provided they have adequate drainage and receive enough sunlight.

Q3: What is the best time to plant plum trees?

A: Plum trees can be planted in the fall or early spring, depending on your climate.

Q4: How often should I fertilize my plum tree?

A: Fertilize your plum tree once a year in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

Q5: Can I grow plums from seeds?

A: Yes, you can grow plum trees from seeds, but the resulting fruit may not be the same as the parent tree.

Q6: How do I prune my plum tree?

A: Prune your plum tree in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches, and thin out crowded branches to allow air and sunlight to penetrate the canopy.

Q7: How do I control pests and diseases on my plum tree?

A: Use organic or chemical insecticides and fungicides to control pests and diseases, depending on the severity of the infestation. Consult with a local extension office or horticulturist for advice.

Q8: How do I know when my plums are ripe?

A: Plums are ready for harvesting when they are fully ripe and have reached their full color. Most plums will ripen on the tree, but some varieties may require picking before they are fully ripe.

Q9: Can I freeze plums?

A: Yes, you can freeze plums for long-term storage. Wash and pit them, cut them into slices or halves, and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.

Q10: What are some popular plum recipes?

A: Plums can be used in sweet and savory dishes, such as jams, pies, tarts, sauces, chutneys, and salads. One popular recipe is plum cake, a traditional German dessert made with fresh plums, cinnamon, and almonds.