Plum - Prunus domestica
Full sun.
Jul–Sep depending on sowing time.
Mar–May outdoors after risk of frost.
40–60cm height; 30–50cm spread.
OVERVIEW
A productive fruit tree that can produce heavy crops of plums in late summer. Grow in full sun for the sweetest fruit and thin heavy crops if needed. Plums are excellent eaten fresh, baked in tarts, or cooked into jams and compotes.
- Vegetable Type: Plum
- Key Characteristic: Juicy summer fruits perfect for jams and baking.
- Hardiness: Fully hardy (suitable for most UK gardens).
PLANTING ADVICE
Plant in well-drained, fertile soil in full sun. Best planted in the ground, though patio varieties can be grown in large containers.
- Outdoor cultivation
Suitable for outdoor cultivation in full sun or light shade depending on variety.
- Greenhouse cultivation
Not suitable for greenhouse cultivation.
CARE & HARVEST
Keep soil moist and weed free. Prune during the correct season to maintain shape and encourage fruiting. Thin heavy crops if needed to improve fruit size and quality. Remove fallen fruit to prevent pests and disease.
- Watering: Water young trees regularly during their first few years. Established trees usually cope well but may need watering in prolonged dry spells.
- Feeding: Feed in early spring with a balanced fertiliser and mulch annually with compost.
- Cutting and prunning: Prune during the correct season to maintain shape and promote fruiting.
- Harvesting: Pick when fruits are fully coloured and slightly soft.
- Pest and diseases: Monitor for aphids, codling moth and fungal diseases; prune for good airflow.
VERVE RECOMMENDS...
- Thin heavy crops early in the season to improve fruit size and reduce strain on branches.