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    Home»Fruit Trees»Plum Trees»Do plum trees need pruning?
    Plum Trees

    Do plum trees need pruning?

    Lucy SmithBy Lucy SmithFebruary 19, 20235 Mins Read
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    Contents show
    1 What is the best time to prune plum trees?
    1.1 Can you prune a plum tree in the fall
    2 Is September too late to prune a plum tree?
    3 Can I prune a plum tree in October?
    3.1 Can you prune a plum tree while fruiting
    4 What shape should a plum tree be?
    4.1 Should I thin the fruit on my plum tree
    5 Do plums grow on new or old wood?
    5.1 What can I prune in September October
    6 Conclusion

    No, plum trees do not need pruning.

    No, plum trees do not need pruning.

    What is the best time to prune plum trees?

    When pruning plums, it is best to avoid doing so in winter as this increases the risk of infection by silver leaf disease. Silver leaf disease is a serious problem for plums and other Prunus species and can cause extensive damage to the tree. The best time for pruning is usually spring for young trees and mid-summer for established ones.

    Pruning is a important process to help your tree grow into the desired shape. Always prune back to the buds aimed in the direction you want the limbs to grow. This will help new growth to spread outward from the center of the tree.

    Can you prune a plum tree in the fall

    Most fruit trees are pruned during dormant season. This is because it is easier to see the structure of the tree and make cuts without damaging new growth. However, this is not true for plums. The best season to prune a plum tree is mid summer during full growth. This is because you can see where the new growth is and make cuts accordingly.

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    Japanese plums produce fruit on one year growth, so you can cut back about a third of previous year’s growth. This will help create strong branches and avoid overproduction of fruit.

    Is September too late to prune a plum tree?

    Fruit trees, known as stone fruit, such as plums and cherries, should be pruned after flowering in the spring when the sap is rising, and not after September.

    Pruning is an important part of maintaining a fruit tree. Once your tree is established, you should prune off any branches that have not produced fruit in that year. Remove all dead wood and dispose of it. Trim all side shoots to six leaves from their parent branch to encourage fruiting next year. Keep the central stem no more than 3 feet (91 cm) tall to encourage fruiting.Do Plum Trees Need Pruning_1

    Can I prune a plum tree in October?

    If you are pruning plum trees, it is best to do so in spring or summer to avoid silver leaf disease. This disease can be problematic for these trees if they are pruned in winter.

    Fruit trees may bear fruit in alternate years, which is known as biennial bearing. During a generally poor crop year, there may be vigorous growth. Over several years, the performance may decline.

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    Can you prune a plum tree while fruiting

    It is generally recommended to prune stone fruit trees in late summer after fruiting has finished. However, if necessary, pruning can also be done in early-mid autumn.

    It’s important to winterize your trees to ensure their health and prepare them for the cold weather ahead. Follow these tips to winterize your trees:

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    – Avoid fertilizing past midsummer to discourage new growth late in the season.

    – Water deeply in the fall a few times before the first freeze, especially during a dry season.

    – Prune while trees are dormant, in late winter or early spring.

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    What shape should a plum tree be?

    Pruning plum trees is important to ensure they grow properly. In the second year, cut back any lateral branches that are growing outwards by at least 45° from the vertical, so that the final tree will have a vase shape.

    Plum trees need to be planted in an area with well-drained soil. If the soil is too heavy and clay-like, it will be difficult for the tree to get the nutrients it needs and the tree will be more susceptible to fungal pathogens.

    Should I thin the fruit on my plum tree

    Fruit thinning is an important process in the growth of fruit trees. Too much fruit on a tree can lead to limb breakage or alternate bearing. By thinning the fruit in the spring, it allows for better sized and quality fruit.

    Most plum trees are relatively small, only reaching 16 feet (5 m) at maturity. However, if you live in a more northerly climate, you may want to plant your plum tree in a location where it will be protected from cold winds. This is because these trees are particularly susceptible to late frost damage.

    Do plums grow on new or old wood?

    Plums are a popular fruit that can be enjoyed fresh or used in a variety of recipes. While they are relatively easy to care for, it is important to remember that plums fruit on young wood. This means that pruning should be done with care, avoiding removal of branches that are less than three years old unless absolutely necessary. When pruning, choose a point just above a bud to ensure that the plant will continue to produce fruit.

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    Pruning in the fall can be beneficial for several reasons. For one, you can see the tree’s structure more clearly after the leaves have dropped. This makes it easier to identify any disease or insect problems. Additionally, pruning while the tree is dormant can help encourage new growth in the spring.Do Plum Trees Need Pruning_2

    What can I prune in September October

    October is the time to prune trees, shrubs and climbers. Santolina and Betula should have their faded flower-heads removed, along with any straggly shoots. Carpinus, Gleditsia, Juglans and Laburnum should be pruned in autumn. Liriodendron and Malus should be pruned in late autumn.

    Pruning during the growing season always stimulates new growth. This is because when a tree is cut, it produces a hormone called auxin. Auxin helps the tree to grow new leaves and branches. However, during summer’s heat, having to produce that ill-timed new flush of growth greatly stresses a tree. Pruning in the fall is even worse as it prevents the tree from going into a natural dormancy.

    Conclusion

    No, plum trees do not need pruning.

    No, plum trees do not need pruning.

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    lucy smith
    Lucy Smith
    • Website

    Lucy Smith is a highly experienced horticulturist with a passion for fruit tree cultivation. She holds a degree in Horticulture from the University of California, Davis, and has worked in various roles in the industry. With over 10 years of experience, Lucy is dedicated to using eco-friendly methods for sustainable gardening practices.

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