Cherry plums (Prunus cerasifera) are delicious stone fruits capable of growing almost anywhere, making them the ideal tree for many home gardens. Although the typical lifespan of a cherry plum tree can span up to 25 years, a little extra effort will ensure that it thrives throughout its entire life. Growing a cherry plum tree from a seed is a fun project that can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of skill level.
Once you have procured your seeds, the best time to start is in the early spring. Before you get started, it is important to store the seeds in a cool and dry place. This will help keep them viable until you are ready to begin the process. Once planted, cherry plum seeds need about 2-3 weeks for germination. Therefore, it is best to start the process as early as possible in order to give the seedlings adequate time to mature.
When you are ready to plant, you will need to decide whether you want to use a container or mix the pit directly into the soil. If you opt for the latter, it is highly advised to dig a modest length of trench. Doing so will help ensure that the seeds have room to spread as the tree grows. Regardless of the method you choose, it is important to have a quality, nutrient-rich soil.
Once the pit is planted, you should moisten the soil and keep it moist while the seedlings are germinating. Watering should be done on a consistent basis. Additionally, cherry plum trees love sunlight, so occasional exposure will usually result in a healthier tree and a richer bounty. If the tree is exposed to prolonged periods of shade, it can result in the tree becoming weak and susceptible to disease.
When the seedlings start to emerge, you can add a little fertilizer and nutrient-rich mulch. Doing this at this stage will help give the tree the strength to grow in the right way. Cherry plum trees love water and require regular watering to keep their root systems strong. Pruning is also considered a critical part of keeping the tree healthy. Pruning helps promote new growth and also helps control the size of the tree. Additionally, it will help encourage larger fruits and higher yields.
Once the tree is established, it is crucial to uphold a regular fruit avocation program. Regular sampling is important to identify any potential problems and to prevent the overproduction of fruit. This will help to ensure that the tree does not become overwhelmed and that any deficiencies can be addressed before it is too late.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential for creating a productive and healthy cherry plum tree. To ensure the proper fertilization of your tree, you must first ensure that the soil has enough nitrogen, phosphate, and potash by regularly supplementing your soil with the necessary nutrients. Fertilization should usually be done twice a year, once in early spring and once in early fall, to help support healthy growth and productive yields. Do not apply more than four pounds of fertilizer per thousand square feet, otherwise you may risk burning your tree which can be very detrimental.
Weed Control
Weed control is a necessary part of growing a cherry plum tree. By controlling the weeds that surround the tree, you can help to ensure that it receives the proper amount of nutrients, water and sunlight. It is best to pull weeds manually if they are small and to use herbicides if they are larger. Ensure that the weeds are completely removed, as they can use up much-needed resources and also invite disease or pests.
Pest Control
Cherry plum trees are susceptible to various insect pests. Maintaining a healthy tree through pruning and regular fertilization can help prevent the majority of these pests. Additionally, regularly checking for signs of pests and treating them early can help keep the problem under control. Insecticides can be used to get rid of the pests, but be aware of the potential risks to both humans and the environment if they are overused.
Disease Prevention
In order to keep your cherry plum tree healthy, preventative steps should be taken to avoid diseases. Regularly inspecting the tree for any signs of disease, including leaf discoloration, wilting, defoliation, and cankers, can help spot a problem with your tree early on. Pruning and proper fertilization can also help reduce the likelihood of disease. If it is too late for preventative measures, there are various treatments available for diseases, including fungicides or bactericides.
Harvest
When it comes to the harvest of your cherry plum tree, it is important to know when to pluck the fruit. The best time to harvest is when the fruits are ripe and slightly firm. If the fruits are left to overripen, they can start to rot and can encourage pests to invade the tree. It is also important to be gentle when harvesting, as the fruits can bruise easily. Pick the fruits carefully and store the ripe fruits in a cool, dry place if they are not going to be consumed right away.
Post-Harvest Care
After the harvest, it is important to give the cherry plum tree some post-harvest care. Prune away any inactive or dead branches and ensure that there is at least one-eighth inch of room between the ring of branches and the trunk. Additionally, add a fresh layer of mulch and trim the crown to keep it in shape. During the winter months, you should also cover the tree with burlap or a blanket to protect it from harsh weather and frost.
