Technically, you can plant your plum tree any time from late Autumn to early Spring . The best time to plant is in October when the soil is moist but still retains some of the summer warmth. Soil preparation is best done a month or more before planting so that the soil has time to settle.
Where should I plant a plum tree?
Plums grow best in a sunny spot in well-drained, fertile soil . Most trees in the plum family come in sizes to suit all gardens. If you choose your tree carefully you can train it into your preferred shape – as a standard or fan. Smaller trees, grown on semi-dwarfing rootstock are easier to maintain.
What is the best time to plant a plum tree?
It's best to plant plum trees as bare-root trees in late winter or in early spring , while they're dormant—this minimizes the shock of transplanting and encourages the tree to start new spring growth soon after being planted.
Are plum trees hard to grow?
Growing plum trees is not too difficult as long as you give them what they need . Plums require full sun and well-drained, sandy soil in order to thrive. ... Many of the European varieties are self-fruiting, which means that you only need to plant one tree in order to get fruit.
How long does it take to plant a plum tree?
The trees generally begin bearing fruit four to six years after planting . Plums also need winter chill, pruning and the right climate to produce a good yield.
Do I need 2 plum trees to produce fruit?
Plums are a stone fruit that are both delicious and beautiful. Most plum trees are not self-pollinating, so you will need to plant at least two plum trees to bear fruit . When planting a plum tree, it is important to make sure that the variety you choose will grow well in your climate.
Do plum trees fruit every year?
Fruit such as apples and plums may fruit in alternate years . This is known as biennial bearing. A generally poor crop, but vigorous growth. Performance may decline over several years.
Do plum trees have invasive roots?
A plum tree does not have a notorious root system , one that heaves up sidewalks, for instance. ... These feeder roots extend horizontally to the edge of the leaf canopy, or drip line, and beyond up to 1 1/2 times the height of the tree. A few anchoring “sinker” roots grow down several feet to stabilize the tree.
Are plums poisonous to dogs?
Plums are one of several fruits that contain hydrogen cyanide, which is extremely toxic to dogs if eaten . ... If your dog is suffering from plum poisoning, you will likely notice vomiting, tremors, difficulty breathing, and it can be fatal within an hour if not treated right away.
Do plum trees need a lot of water?
Just as important as feeding your plum tree, it's equally important to provide adequate water . Young plum trees need to be watered at least once a week to promote healthy root growth. Once the tree is established, it requires regular watering, especially in the dry summer months.
What is the best fertilizer for plum trees?
For newly planted plums, fertilize in the early spring by broadcasting one cup of 10-10-10 fertilizer over an area that is roughly three feet (. 9 m.) across. In mid-May and mid-July, apply a 1⁄2 cup of calcium nitrate or ammonium nitrate evenly over an area about two feet (.
How tall does a plum tree grow?
American plums can grow to a mature height of 20 to 40 feet but ordinarily top out at a height and canopy width of 25 feet.
Are plums good for you?
Plums are a very nutritious fruit. Both plums and prunes are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants . Additionally, they have several characteristics that may reduce the risk of many chronic diseases, such as osteoporosis, cancer, heart disease and diabetes.
What is the fastest growing fruit tree?
- Peach Trees. USDA Zones: 4-9, but they do best in zones 6-8. ...
- Mulberry Trees. USDA Zones: 5-9, but some varieties are hardy to zones 3-4. ...
- Apple Trees. USDA Zones: 3-8. ...
- Citrus Fruit Trees. USDA Zones: 8-10 (in-ground) ...
- Apricot Trees. USDA Zones: 5-8. ...
- Mandarin Fruit Trees. ...
- Cherry Trees. ...
- Fig Trees.
Do all plum trees bear fruit?
Although most ornamental, flowering plum trees do not produce fruit , some trees may produce a small amount fruit. There are two ways to keep plums from forming. ... You can also spray the tree with a product containing the hormone ethephon by following the directions on the label.
