Edibles – Fruit – Plum Tree

Plum Tree 

Botanical name: prunus salicina 

Beginner friendly?: yes 

Average size at maturity: can reach 30-40 ft in height with a spread of 15-30 ft 

Hardy zone: zones 5-8 

Foliage color: green 

Flower color: white 

Bloom time: spring blooms, mid-summer fruit harvest 

Growth rate: grows 1-2 ft per year 

Pruning instructions: prune in the winter during dormancy to maintain desired shape and size  

Propagation methods: propagate by grafting or layering 

Landscape use: edible garden, seasonal focal point, container tree, pollinator garden 

Special features: cold hardy, attracts wildlife, clay soil tolerant

Light needs: 6 hours of sun per day 

Watering instructions: allow the top 3-5 inches of soil to dry between watering sessions 

Fertilizing instructions : use an organic slow-release fertilizer once a year in the early spring or use an organic liquid fertilizer once a month during the spring months, and once a month again during the fall months to encourage a bountiful harvest 

Best time to plant: spring, fall 

Best type of soil: loam 

Companion plants: chamomile, lavender, garlic 

Toxicity level: toxic for pets if ingested, mildly toxic for humans if the seeds are ingested in large amounts

Invasive species: yes