If you’ve been hesitant to grow plum trees because you think your garden is too small, it’s time to reconsider. One of the easiest ways to grow plum trees is to plant dwarf plum trees. These trees may be small, but they are no less magical for it.
What are dwarf plum trees?
Contrary to popular belief, dwarf plum trees are not the result of genetic modification. They are created using a traditional technique called grafting. This involves attaching a branch of a fruiting tree, known as a scion, onto a rootstock. The rootstocks are chosen based on their characteristics, such as their ability to adapt to different soils, their resistance to disease, their tolerance to drought, their hardiness, and their size. As a result, dwarf plum trees will only grow to be as tall as their roots allow.
Planting and caring for dwarf plum trees
When planting a dwarf plum tree, it’s important to prepare a large hole in the soil and add plenty of organic matter. To ensure the best results, the organic matter should be well-rotted. Additionally, the hole should be wide rather than deep. After planting the tree, mulch it to help it retain moisture and suppress weeds. You can also protect the young tree from insects and animals by encircling its trunk with a wire cage.
It’s important to note that not all dwarf plum trees are self-fertile. If yours isn’t, you will need another plum tree that flowers at the same time for pollination. Pruning is best done in late winter, when the buds start to swell. If cared for properly, a healthy plum tree can bear fruit for 10 to 15 years or longer. When the fruit is ripe, it will be soft to the touch. You can collect the ripe fruit by spreading a cloth on the ground and shaking the tree.
One potential issue with plum trees is fungal diseases. To avoid this, use organic fungicides. If you’re looking to buy high-quality dwarf plum trees, consider purchasing from a reputable supplier like CRJ Fruit Trees.
Enjoying the fruits
Once you’ve harvested the plums from your dwarf plum tree, there are many ways to enjoy them. One of the simplest is to eat them fresh, either on their own or in a fruit salad. If you want to preserve the plums, you can make jam or jelly by boiling the plums with sugar and water, then straining out the seeds and skin. Another option is to pickle the plums, which involves soaking them in vinegar, sugar, and spices. You can also dry the plums by slicing them and placing them in a food dehydrator or in the sun. Dried plums are a delicious and healthy snack on their own, or you can use them in recipes like cookies or trail mix.
