The Plum is a hardy, long-lived (100 years), 4m-8m, deciduous tree native to Iran and China. There are several hundred species of prunus. Young trees respond well to rich fertile soil, and mature trees prefer heavy clay soil and surface planting is recommended.

The plum tree prefers a mild to warm summer and sufficiently cool winter to induce a long dormancy period. Ample water supply is essential from late winter through the growing season. If the weather is too dry, the plums will develop to a certain stage and then fall of the tree still tiny green. However, unseasonably wet weather, when plums are ripe and not harvested soon enough, a fungal condition, brown rot can develop.

When flowering in early spring, the tree will be covered with blossom and approximately half of them will become plums, in a good season. Although the Plum tree is tolerant of winter frosts, the blossoms are subject to frost damage. The fruiting season can continue throughout summer depending on the variety. Fruit should be left on the tree to develop its fullest flavor.

A number of varieties are self-sterile and need to be planted with a compatible variety. Butting is the preferred method of propagation. Grafted trees bear within 3 to 4 years. Plum trees are very susceptible to silver leaf disease. Mid-summer pruning is recommended to minimize the risk and all cuts should be sealed with a latex paint or sealing wax.

Plum trees are very susceptible to silver leaf disease. Mid-summer pruning is recommended to minimize the risk and all cuts should be sealed with a latex paint or sealing wax.

Plum, prunus domestica

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The key to successful fruit and nut production is the provision of a beneficial environment for the trees that bear them.