Summary
Growing plum plants from seed is a rewarding endeavor that yields both sweet fruits and a gumption of accomplishment . Whether you ’re a veteran nurseryman or a novice enthusiast , thiscomprehensive guidewill empower you with the cognition and techniques to crop flourish plum trees from thehumble beginningsof a seeded player .
Selecting the Right Seeds
The first step ingrowing plum plantsfrom seed is take viable and hefty seeds . wait for plump , undamaged seeds from ripe plum tree . forefend seeds from store - bought plums , as they may have been treat with chemicals that inhibit sprouting .
Preparing the Seeds
Before planting , prepare the seeds by removing anyremaining fruit mush . Soak the come inlukewarm waterfor 24 hours to soften theirouter shellsand promote sprouting .
Stratifying the Seeds
Plum seeds necessitate a geological period of cold stratification to simulate the natural stipulation they experience in the state of nature . Place the inebriate come in amoist paper toweland store them in the icebox for 6 - 8 weeks . Thisprocess breaksdown the seed ’s quiescency and improves germination rate .
Planting the Seeds
Once the seeds have been stratified , it ’s time to plant them . satiate a pot or seed tray with a well - drain potting mix . Sow the seeds about 1inch deepand 2 - 3 in asunder . Keep thesoil moistbut not soggy .
Germination and Care
Plum seed typically germinate within 2 - 3 weeks . Once theseedlings issue , provide them with plenty of sunlight and water . fertilise the seedling every few weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer .
Transplanting the Seedlings
When the seedling have developed their first set of true leave of absence , it ’s time to graft them intoindividual potsor container . Use a potting mixture that is rich inorganic matterand drains well . Dig a hole deeply enough to conciliate theentire root balland plant the seedling . piddle the seedling good .
Growing the Plum Trees
As theplum trees grow , keep to provide them with regular lachrymation , fertilization , and pruning . Prune the trees in belated wintertime or early spring toremove deadordiseased branchesand encourage fruit product .
Fruiting and Harvest
plum tree trees typically begin to have fruit 3 - 5 years after planting . The fruit will ripen inlate summerorearly fall . When the plums are good , they will be flabby to the touch and have a sweet , gamy flavor .
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Common Questions and Answers
Q : How long does it take to grow aplum treefrom seed?A : Plum trees typically begintobear fruit3 - 5 years after plant . Q : What is the best time to plant plum seeds?A : Plant plum seedsinlate fallorearly springafter they have been stratified . Q : How often should I irrigate my plum tree?A : piss yourplum tree deeplyand regularly , especially during hot and dry weather . Q : What is the good fertilizer for plum trees?A : Use abalanced fertilizerwith a ratio of 10 - 10 - 10 or 12 - 12 - 12.Q : How do I prune a plum tree?A : Prune plum trees inlate winteror other spring to remove all in ordiseased branchesand promote fruit production . Q : What arecommon pestsand diseases that touch plum trees?A : coarse pests include aphid , spider mites , and plum curculio . Common diseases let in brown rot , black knot , and leaf smear .
