what to feed flowering plum trees

Full Answer

What nutrients do plums need to grow?

Plum trees also need micronutrients in the soil, which help make the macronutrients available to the tree. For example, molybdenum helps fix nitrogen to the soil. Copper and zinc prevent color mottling and misshapen leaves.

How do you take care of a flowering plum tree?

Water your flowering plum tree once a week for 10 minutes each watering. Fertilize the flowering plums in the early spring, before they flower, with compost, manure or 2 cups of water soluble 10-10-10. Spread the fertilizer around the base of the tree.

When to fertilize plums?

The tree’s age is a barometer on when to fertilize. Fertilize newly planted plums in the early spring before it leafs out. During the tree’s second year, fertilize the tree twice a year, first in early March and then again about the first of August.

What is eating my plum tree leaves?

Pests: The most common pests that affect ornamental plum trees are tiny, soft-bodied insects known as aphids. Using some insecticides can kill insects that prey on aphids like lacewigs and ladybugs.

What fertilizer is good for plum trees?

For newly planted plums, fertilize in the early spring by broadcasting one cup of 10-10-10 fertilizer over an area that is roughly three feet (. 9 m.) across. In mid-May and mid-July, apply a ½ cup of calcium nitrate or ammonium nitrate evenly over an area about two feet (.

How do you care for plum blossoms?

Dig a hole deep enough to accommodate the root ball, about 3 feet deep, and about 3 feet wide. Place the tree in the hole and cover with soil. Water your flowering plum tree once a week for 10 minutes each watering. In the heat of summer, especially during a dry spell, water twice a week for 10 minutes each watering.

When should I fertilize my purple plum tree?

Fertilize the purple leaf plum every spring before new growth appears with a general-purpose fertilizer. Check the tree regularly for pests, such as aphids, scales, borers, mealy bugs and tent caterpillars. Purple leaf plums trees in a shaded location will have a green leaf color instead of the vibrant purple.

Do flowering plum trees need a lot of water?

Once every 10 days or two weeks is plenty. Worse than dry, thirsty roots is waterlogged, drowning roots. Although a little depression in the soil aids summer watering, it's important to bring the soil around the tree up to the level of the surrounding soil for the winter.

What is wrong with my flowering plum tree?

The most common plum tree diseases include black knot, plum pocket, brown rot, plum pox virus, perennial canker, and bacterial leaf spot.

Why is my ornamental plum tree dying?

A dying or diseased plum tree can be caused by bugs or pests, rain, mildew, bacteria, hot and cold weather, frost, no pollination, too much water, or a lack of water. Plum trees are resilient trees and there are many ways to treat bugs and diseases. There are many causes of why a plum tree is not growing well or dying.

Do plum trees need feeding?

All fruit trees, including apples, pears, peaches, plums and cherries. Most fruit trees need high amounts of potassium, which is essential for bud and fruit development. Some fruits, such as stone fruits, pears and culinary apples, require additional nitrogen for growth.

Is Epsom salt good for plum trees?

Fruit trees like citrus, apples, peaches, pomegranate, and plums perk up after application of Epsom salt.

How do you rejuvenate a plum tree?

3:387:46How to rejuvanate a neglected plum tree. - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOff because plums will fruit on old or new wood you don't want to let the shoots completely exhaustMoreOff because plums will fruit on old or new wood you don't want to let the shoots completely exhaust themselves you want to encourage. New green shoots.

Can you overwater a plum tree?

You can easily overwater your plum trees. Plums grow poorly in wet soil. Too much water prevents roots from absorbing nutrients and oxygen. Avoid overwatering your trees by adjusting your approach to the weather conditions.

How do you keep a plum tree healthy?

Grow plum trees in moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Prune in summer and mulch in autumn with home-made compost or well-rotted animal manure. Harvest the plums when ripe and juicy.

Why are the leaves on my plum tree going yellow?

Lack of water – trees in pots need regular watering as they dry out quicker and do not catch as much rain water as plants and trees in the ground. Small pots – are the pots big enough? Nutrient deficiencies – as with watering, trees in pots need regular feeding to give them the nutrients they require to grow.

When should you prune a flowering plum tree?

Spring bloomers should be trimmed after flowers have dropped. Summertime-blooming plum trees must be pruned the following winter or early spring. Winter bloomers, such as P. mexicana, may be trimmed after fruits are harvested in early fall.

How long do plum blossoms last?

While cherry tree's blooming period is usually around 7–10 days, plum blossoms can be enjoyed with much longer period for about a month.

Do plum blossoms become plums?

Plum Trees Not Fruiting Plum trees begin to bear when they are three to six years of age. You can tell right after bloom if your tree will set fruit. Inspect the terminal ends after blossom drop. The ovary should be swollen with the beginning of the new fruit.

Do plum blossoms fall?

It is one of the "Flowers of the Four Seasons", which consist of the orchid (spring), the lotus (summer), the chrysanthemum (autumn) and the plum blossom (winter).

How to control black knots on plum trees?

Flowering plum trees are drought resistant. Black knot can stunt the growth of flowering plum trees, but it can be controlled with a lime-sulfur fungicide and by removing the black knots.

What is a flowering plum tree?

Flowering plum trees, also known as ornamental plum trees, are beautiful trees to plant for shade, for the small edible fruit or for the lovely color of the leaves.

What zone do plum trees grow in?

They are hardy from zones 4 to 9, so they will grow in just about any U.S. climate, and they require little care. Choose a spot for your flowering plum tree.

When do plum trees bloom?

They bloom in spring in a burst of tiny pink or white blossoms, reminiscent of Japanese cherry trees.

Can black knots stunt plum trees?

Flowering plum trees are drought resistant. Black knot can stunt the growth of flowering plum trees, but it can be controlled with a lime-sulfur fungicide and by removing the black knots. Hollan Johnson is a freelance writer and contributing editor for many online publications.

Can you grow plums in clay?

Test your soil's pH. Flowering plum trees can tolerate any type of soil, from loamy to sandy to clay, but they like it slightly acidic. However, flowering plums will grow in alkaline soil. Flowering plum trees, also known as ornamental plum trees, are beautiful trees to plant for shade, for the small edible fruit or for the lovely color ...

Who is Hollan Johnson?

Hollan Johnson is a freelance writer and contributing editor for many online publications. She has been writing professionally since 2008 and her interests are travel, gardening, sewing and Mac computers. Prior to freelance writing, Johnson taught English in Japan.

What type of soil do plum trees like?

Soil Type Preferred - Plum trees grow and produce the best fruit in well-drained but moist fertile soil that is rich in organic matter, but tolerate a wide range of soils as long as water and nutrients are not limiting and soil pH is adequate. Plum tree roots will not tolerate soils where water remains on or near the surface for more than one hour after a heavy rain. They are tolerant of heavy clay soils if drainage is good. In soil with low fertility or compact clay it'll be worth your time to mix in some organic compost to the native soil. They like the soil to hold a good supply of water, especially when the fruits are developing in summer, but not so much water that the soil stays constantly soggy or wet.

What fertilizer should I use for trees?

Trees can be fed with organic plant foods or inorganic fertilizers, such as 10-10-10. Avoid the use of fertilizers that have a high nitrogen content (the first number in fertilizer). When feeding plants that will put produce on the kitchen table, I always go with organic. Organic plant foods and composts are usually non-burning and will not have chemicals or other inorganic substances in them. The type of fertilizer you choose to use is up to you.

Why is nitrogen important for plum trees?

Nitrogen Consideration - Although nitrogen is a necessary element for basic plant growth, plum trees, and most other fruit trees, react dramatically if there is too much nitrogen (the first number in fertilizer). The nitrogen redirects energy from fruit production to foliage and shoots. If there's too much nitrogen in the soil fruits might prematurely fall to the ground before they are fully developed.

What is the best time to grow fruit?

Sun - The best and most fruits will be produced when trees are growing in full sun. However, trees that receive a little shade during the hottest part of summer days will still produce good crops of fruit.

Why are my leaves yellowing?

Yellowing and dropping of leaves may indicate drought and the need for supplemental irrigation or fertilization.

Do plum trees need fertilizer?

Plum trees planted in very fertile soil may not require fertilization until they've used up many of the nutrients. The best way to decide on wether or not to fertilize is to observe the tree itself. If growth is stunted and you don't see at least 1 foot of growth per year, or what otherwise should be dark green leaves have become light green, this indicates a need for fertilization. If the leaves are light green the tree cannot photosynthesize effectively for the best fruit production. Fertilizer will darken the foliage over time and help to stimulate good fruit production.

Can you use organic fertilizer on fruit?

Alternatively you can use a non-burning organic type fertilizer, or you can use a layer of organic compost as mulch (composted cow manure, etc), so that less chemicals are added to the soil that could end up in your fruit, and eventually in your body.

How to tell if fertilizer is needed?

Look for signs during the growing season that an additional application of fertilizer may be required, such as a general lack of health, minimal growth, small leaves, dead twigs on branch ends or foliage that appears light green or off in color.

Why are plum trees not planted?

Since the soil around many homes may lack proper nutrients, proper fertilization of these trees -- especially the first few years -- can be critical to their overall health and survival.

How to tell if a tree needs fertilizer?

Look for signs during the growing season that an additional application of fertilizer may be required, such as a general lack of health, minimal growth, small leaves, dead twigs on branch ends or foliage that appears light green or off in color . If any of these occur, add an additional application and monitor closely to see if the tree's health improves .

Who is Lori Lapierre?

Writer Bio. Lori Lapierre holds a Bachelor of Arts and Science in public relations/communications. For 17 years, she worked for a Fortune 500 company before purchasing a business and starting a family. She is a regular freelancer for "Living Light News," an award-winning national publication.

Do not over fertilize a tree?

Do not over-fertilize -- this can entice sap-sucking insects, open the tree up to disease or weaken growth.

What is fertilizer in soil?

Fertilizers – both synthetic and organic (naturally derived) – are soil amendments labeled with a “guaranteed analysis” of nutrients like Nitrogen (N), Phosphate (P), and Potash (K).

What is the role of nitrogen in plum trees?

Nitrogen helps encourage vegetative growth (leaves and branches). Phosphorus encourages root and blossom development. Potassium/Pot ash is responsible for the efficacy of the plum tree’s natural disease-resistance and systems supporting its overall health , kind of like an immune system.

What is the best way to grow plums?

Fertilizing is an excellent way to replenish the nutrients in your soil, especially nitrogen. Nitrogen encourages green vegetative growth, which is exactly what you want to promote before your plum tree reaches its fruit-bearing years.

What are the signs of a plum tree lacking nitrogen?

Signs of macronutrient deficiency in plum trees include reddish or pale colored leaves, narrow or shrunken leaves and dead spots on leaves.

Do you need to test soil before fertilizing plum trees?

Always test your soil prior to applying any fertilizers. Different soils can have varying amounts of native elements needed to support plum tree growth and development. If you discover your soil lacks any necessary nutrients (nitrogen, phosphates, potash, etc.), be sure to choose a fertilizer that supplements the soil’s nutrient deficiency.

Do plum trees need nitrogen?

They are present in healthy soil, but may be added when soil is deficient. Nitrogen is the nutrient most used by growing plum trees; it moves throughout the soil, is leached off by normal growth and must be replaced by synthetic or organic compounds. The main source of nitrogen is decaying organic matter.

Can you over fertilize a tree?

Take care not to over-fertilize, or you may produce a tree that is unbalanced, which can affect fruit production and leave the tree susceptible to pests and disease.

Why do plum trees have round holes?

Bacterial Diseases: Certain bacterial pathogens like Xanthomonas lead to foliar diseases in the plum trees. If the leaves of the plum trees appear with small, round holes then it could be a result of the Shothole disease.

What is the term for the white spots on the leaves of a plum tree?

Powdery mildew: It is a term to describe the fungal disease that results in white residue which coats leaf surfaces. Prunus Ringspot: One of the most common viruses that affect all plum flowering trees, Prunus ringspot leads to yellow spots, rings and mottling. It results in stunted growth of the tree.

What is a flowering plum tree?

Not only are they attractive, but the full bloom display they hold can have quite a startling effect on the beholder. A flowering plum tree with its beautiful spray of pink flowers and purple foliage is one of the most beautiful ornamental garden tree that is used for decorative ...

What are the pests that eat plum trees?

Pests: The most common pests that affect ornamental plum trees are tiny, soft-bodied insects known as aphids. Using some insecticides can kill insects that prey on aphids like lacewigs and ladybugs. To control the problem, spray them off with water. Prune out heavily infested leaves and stems.

How tall is Prunus cerasifera?

Scientific name: Prunus cerasifera ‘Krauter Vesuvius’. Synonyms: Cherry plum. Size: 15 to 20 feet height. Description. ‘Krauter Vesuvius’ with its dark reddish-purple leaves and pink bloom is a cultivar that typically grows as a dense, upright-rounded tree.

What is the color of the leaves on a Chickasaw Plum tree?

A plum tree that is native to North America, the Chickasaw Plum tree has a scaly-black bark with reddish side branches, and small oval-green leaves. In the months of February, March, April and May, the tree has fragrant, small-white blossoms with reddish-orange antlers.

How tall is a plum tree?

The plum tree is a medium-sized tree which will reach 20 to 25 feet in height. It has a crown of 15 feet that comes to life every spring and winter. The flowers on the trees are a beautiful shade of pink, red or white, and have a strong fragrance.

How long does it take for plums to set buds?

Like many other ornamental trees, plums set their flower buds during the past growing season. Following six weeks of cold, the buds should come out of dormancy, if exposed to warmth and moisture for two to three weeks.

How to get rid of spider mites on a tree?

Keep the tree watered, but if it becomes infected, release predatory mites to feed on the harmful ones, or use insecticidal soap, neem or sulphur.

What is an ornamental plum tree?

By Mary Simpson. Ornamental plum trees belong to the Prunus genus, which also includes flowering varieties of almond, apricot, cherry, nectarine and peach. Known collectively as stone fruits, these trees produce little or no eating-quality fruit but are prized for their springtime display of blossoms. Some even offer fall foliage color, as well as ...

What are the most popular plums?

Among the most popular flowering plums, "Krauter Vesuvius," "Thundercloud" and Atropurpurea" all fall under Prunus cerasifera. The first two varieties typically grow to 20 feet tall; the third may reach 35 feet. "Krauter Vesuvius," with fragrant, pink flowers and dark purple (almost black) foliage, retains its color throughout the growing season. Similar in appearance is "Thundercloud," whose leaves tend to be more coppery. In spring, it also produces fragrant, light pink to white flowers and is the most likely of the three to bear small, red plums. White-flowered "Atropurpurea" goes through the most color changes. The leaves come in coppery-red, deepen to dark purple and transform to red for autumn. All are deciduous.

What flowers are similar to thundercloud?

Similar in appearance is "Thundercloud," whose leaves tend to be more coppery. In spring, it also produces fragrant, light pink to white flowers and is the most likely of the three to bear small, red plums. White-flowered "Atropurpurea" goes through the most color changes.

When do plum trees bloom?

To enjoy a preview of spring color indoors, as well as fragrance in some cases, force flowering plum branches into bloom in late January or early February. Like many other ornamental trees, plums set their flower buds during the past growing season. Following six weeks of cold, the buds should come out of dormancy, if exposed to warmth and moisture for two to three weeks. Since winter is the time to prune the tree for aesthetic purposes, bring some of the cut branches with buds inside. Recut the stems at an angle, arrange the branches in a large vase, add water and move to a cool location away from direct sunlight. Buds on the branches will swell, then burst into bloom.

Where did Mary Simpson start her career?

Mary Simpson began her writing career in 1968 on a Dallas oil magazine . Besides reporting and editing for several small Texas newspapers, Simpson has written for "Petroleum Engineer Magazine," "Denton Today Magazine" and put out an employee newsletter for a FEMA facility.

What tools are used to prune a tree?

There are many tools available depending on the job. Hand shears, pruners, and loppers are ideal for most shrubs. Pole pruners and tree saws are better for large, mature shrubs or trees. If a tree is so large that it can't be safely pruned with a pole pruner, it is best to call in a professional tree service.

How to prepare a garden for planting?

To prepare the planting area dig a hole as deep as the root ball and three times as wide. After removing the soil, mix it with some compost or peat moss. This enriches the soil and loosens the existing dirt so that new roots can spread easily.

How to remove burlap from a plant?

Set the plant in the hole. If the root ball is wrapped in burlap fabric this must now be removed along with any string or wire securing the burlap. If roots are tightly packed gently rake them apart with your fingers.

How to check for moisture in soil?

To check for soil moisture use your finger or a hand trowel to dig a small hole and examine the soil. If the first 2-4” (5-10cm) of soil is dry, it is time to water. Monitor new plants through the first two years to make sure they are getting the moisture they need.

How to grow a tree in a building?

Choose a location that will allow roots to spread and branches to grow freely. Space plants far enough from building foundations, walls, and decks so that the growing foliage won't crowd the structure. Consider whether tall trees or shrubs will block windows or interfere with the roof or power lines.

When pruning a shrub, should you cut it?

When pruning to control a plant's size or shape, cuts should be made just above a leaf bud and at a slight angle. This bud will be where the new growth sprouts. Many shrubs can be regularly sheared to keep them shaped as a hedge, edging or formal foundation planting. Always use sharp, clean tools when pruning.

When do flowering plums bloom?

Flowering Plum adds a welcome splash of color to the early season landscape. A magnificent display of soft pink flowers appear just before the leaves emerge in spring. The rich, deep purple foliage adds tremendous color and contrast throughout the season.

What is a plum tree?

Plums are a fruit of the Prunus species popular all around the world. Plum trees are a rewarding backyard plant that bring plenty of potential benefits. Besides the obvious harvest of plums you’ll no doubt be eager for, plum trees are great ornamental plants. Plum trees are medium-sized and work well for shade trees, landscaping decoration, and improving soil retention.

How to pick plums off a tree?

Your instinct will probably be to pull down on the fruit, but some plum varieties separate more easily if you push upward. Ripe plums will snap off with little effort. If you need a bit more support, gently grasp the branch while pushing up on the fruit.

Why do plums turn white?

Plums often take on a characteristic dusty white color once ripe. That’s because of a coating of epicuticular wax, usually called wax bloom. Once wax bloom is in full swing, it’s clear that plum fruits are ready to pick. Fruit should feel firm and smooth in your hand and may even be a little heavy.

What to do with plums from an orchard?

If you want to use up the fruit from your orchard, try a recipe like Homemade Plum Sauce, Plum Compote, Upside-Down Plum Cake, or even Plum Wine!

How much sun do plum trees need?

Plum trees prefer to grow in full sun. Partial sun will do, but the more light the better. Ideally, you want your tree to get six to eight hours of sun every day .

How tall do plum trees grow?

Plum trees usually grow up to five meters (16 feet) in height. Dwarf plum trees can be a bit smaller, topping out at four meters (14 feet). As a rule of thumb, you want fruit trees to have plenty of space. This ensures that they can spread their branches and roots far enough to get the most nutrients from the sun and soil.

What is the best soil for plum trees?

Plum trees prefer soil with pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Soil should be sandy, loamy, and well-draining. Properly draining soil is vital, since too much accumulated moisture can drown the roots of your fruit tree, increasing the risk of fungal infection.