🟣Plum Tree Planting Instructions

 

Thank you for choosing English’s Fruit Nursery.

 

Before You Plant

– Choose a sunny, sheltered position with well-drained soil.

– Avoid frost pockets and waterlogged areas.

– Remove grass and weeds from a 1 metre (3 ft) circle around the planting site.

 

Planting Your Tree

  1. Soak bare-root trees in water for 2–4 hours before planting.
  2. Dig a hole wide enough to spread the roots comfortably.
  3. Position the tree so the graft union remains above soil level.
  4. Backfill with soil, firm gently around the roots and water thoroughly.
  5. Stake the tree if necessary and secure with a soft tree tie.

 

Spacing Guide

St. Julien A Rootstock

– Trees: 3.5–4.5 m (12–15 ft) apart

Damsons & Gages

– Trees: 3–4 m (10–13 ft) apart

Fan-Trained Trees

– Allow 3–4 m (10–13 ft) of wall or fence space

 

Aftercare

– Water regularly during the first growing season, particularly in dry weather.

– Keep a weed-free area around the base of the tree.

– Apply a mulch of compost or bark, keeping it away from the trunk.

– Feed annually in spring with a balanced fertiliser.

 

Pruning

Unlike apples and pears, plum trees should be pruned during the growing season (late spring or summer) to reduce the risk of silver leaf disease.

Remove:

– Dead or damaged wood

– Crossing branches

– Excessive growth that crowds the centre of the tree

 

Pollination

Many plum varieties are self-fertile, but some benefit from a compatible pollinating partner nearby, resulting in heavier crops.