The plum tree adapts very well in pots, it is very compact and its maintenance is quite easy compared to other fruits. Therefore, the plum tree is a good choice for new gardeners who want to grow fruit trees. It is the best fruit plant to grow in a container. Here we will see how to grow plum in a pot and all its care.
Contents
Basic description
- Scientific name: plum
- Common name: plum
- Plant type: fruity
- Planting time: Fall, winter or spring
- Sun: requires full sun
- Ground: Well-drained / clayey
- Soil pH: 5.0-6.5
- Size of pots: 20 liters or more
Where to grow plum
First, keep in mind that it takes more than one tree because the plum tree needs cross-pollination to produce fruit. However, some varieties can produce fruit automatically.
Plum trees grow very well in humidity. Therefore, this tree should be planted in clay or rich soils, but keep in mind that the soil should be well drained.
In general, fertile, well-drained soils and full sun suit it best.
It survives in regions where there is regular but not very intense cold. Because this tree can be damaged by the cold.
The flower may die in frost, so avoid trees where there are cold and windy places.
Avoid planting in such areas, where it regularly gets cold and settles. Because this tree can cause cold damage.
How to grow plum trees in pots
They can be planted any time of the year, but fall and winter are the ideal times to start growing plum trees in containers.
To grow plum trees in pots, choose a large container, at least 20 liters or more.
At this time, the roots of the plant grow rapidly and provide stability to the plant.
Before planting, place pieces of stone or gravel on the surface of the pot, this helps to have good drainage.
To fill the container, use a mixture of garden soil with compost in equal parts, thus ensuring good nourishment for a long time.
Carefully remove the plant from its current container and soak the roots in water for a few hours, then carefully place the roots in the soil of the new pot and cover them completely.
Water immediately with plenty of water, until it comes out of the drainage holes. Leave the pot in the shade for a day so that the plum tree can recover from transplanting.
Potted Plum Tree Care
Plum trees are a little more tolerant of neglect than other fruit trees, but regular feeding, watering and pruning will ensure they remain healthy and productive.
How often should it be watered and fed?
When the plum tree is young, feed it with an organic-based fertilizer suitable for fruit trees in the spring and fall.
Once they start producing fruit, fertilize in winter, spring and summer. If you forget to feed them, they are quite forgiving and should still bear good fruit.
When it does not rain, the leaves of the plum tree appear brown, for lack of water. To eliminate this situation, wet the entire pot with water.
Water regularly to keep the soil moist, about two to three times a week, but reduce in fall and winter.
This plant needs moisture, to maintain moisture place a layer of mulch on top of the soil.
Cut
Prune young trees in winter, cutting branches to train them to grow into an open vase shape. This helps increase sunlight and promotes air circulation in the canopy.
It is best to prune them after the end of fruiting in summer. Use this time to also remove dead or diseased wood and any ingrown branches. Prune all shoots in half to help maintain a manageable size.
Most plums produce more fruit than the tree can support. Slice fruit when young to help reduce branch load and encourage larger fruit.
diseases and pests
The fruit fly is a devastating pest of plum trees. It lays its eggs on the fruits, which causes the fruits to spoil and fall.
Prevention is key and should start early in the season. Set fruit fly traps and apply attractants.
Slugs chew on leaves and can quickly skeletonize trees. Treat with an appropriate insecticide.
Use staking
Most plum trees should be trained within the first two years of starting. This promotes the development of the plant.
Use plastic twine or twine to plant the plant as it grows.
harvest the plums
Plums are harvested during the summer.
In this link you can read more about the organic cultivation of plums.
Leave plums on the tree until fully ripe before harvesting. They should be smooth when pressed lightly.
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