You may have seen cherry plums in the store or at a local farmer’s market. But how do you know if you’ve got a real one? To help you, here are the steps to identify a cherry plum tree.
Appearance
A cherry plum tree is easy to identify due to its shape and size. The tree is small and has a round, spreading shape with slender branches that are positioned horizontally or at an angle. These branches are loaded with dark green foliage and smaller clusters of pink-white flowers in spring. The trunk is usually slim, often with a few spreading roots near the base. The cherry plums themselves are distinctive and will ripen to a red-purple color in summer.
Leaves
The leaves on a cherry plum tree are long and narrow with sharp tips. They have a slightly glossy texture and grow in small clusters along the slender branches. Each leaf is slightly serrated on the edge and may have a few hairs present. They are usually dark green in color but may turn yellow in fall.
Fruit
The fruit of a cherry plum tree is small and round, usually two to three centimeters in size. The skin is smooth and wrinkled and has a deep red or purple color when ripe. The flesh is yellow-pink and contains a single smooth brown seed in the center. The flesh sweet and sour and is often used to make jellies and jams or added to desserts.
Bark
The bark of a mature cherry plum tree is often dark and covered with small bumps or knobs. The bark can be easily scraped off with your finger and you’ll notice that the wood underneath is often light grey in color. The bark may also have small patches of dead wood, where the bark has peeled away.
Growth Habit
Cherry plums are fast-growing trees and can reach heights of up to three meters when mature. The branches spread out in an umbrella-like shape, creating a wide canopy. The outer branches of the tree may droop slightly, adding to its distinctive shape and making it easy to recognize when fully grown.
Soil
Cherry plums prefer moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, from loam to sandy. When planting, it is best to pick a spot in full sun, as cherry plums need plenty of sunlight and warmth to thrive. If soil is poor or not the right type, it is recommended to add plenty of compost or a slow-release fertilizer to the hole before planting.
Watering and Care
Cherry plums do not require much care apart from consistent watering. The trees should be watered once every week during dry periods and less frequently during periods of heavy rains. If the tree is planted in nutrient-poor soil, it may need an application of fertilizer two to three times a year. Pruning may also be necessary to maintain shape and encourage healthy growth.
Disease Resistance
Cherry plums are generally resistant to most common diseases and pests, such as aphids and scale insects. However, if you live in an area with high humidity, the trees may be vulnerable to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. These can be treated with fungicides and pest control methods if necessary.
Harvesting
Cherry plums are generally ready for harvesting from early summer until late autumn. The fruit should be picked when it has developed a deep red or purple color and should be handled with care during harvest to avoid bruising. Once ripe, cherry plums should be used soon after harvest or preserved in preserves or jams.
Propagation
Cherry plums are often propagated by taking cuttings from the mature tree. The cuttings should be taken in early summer, when the tree is dormant. The cuttings should be taken from the tips of the branches and should be around 15 centimeters in length. The cuttings should then be planted in wet soil, with a rooting hormone applied directly to the cutting to encourage root growth.
Pests and Problems
Cherry plums are generally pest-resistant, but there are a few common problems that can arise. These include mealybugs, which feed on the sap of the tree and can be treated with insecticidal soap. Spider mites can also be an issue, as can leaf-cutting insects. These can be treated with a horticultural oil spray or neem oil.
Organic Methods of Control
If you prefer to use organic methods to control pests and diseases, there are a few options available. For widespread infestations, a strong blast of water can dislodge most pests. Hand-picking pests off the tree can also be effective, as can introducing predatory insects such as ladybugs. Finally, planting a diversity of flowering plants around the tree will attract beneficial insects that can help manage the pest population.
Conclusion
Identifying a cherry plum tree is fairly easy, once you know what to look for. From its distinctive shape to the deep-red purple fruit, it is an attractive and tasty addition to any garden. With proper care and a few organic methods of pest control, you can enjoy the fruits of your labor for years to come.
