Plum

Plant Type: fruit
Plant Height: 8-20 feet
Spread: 8-20 feet
Flower Color: white
Sun Exposure: Full sun

Description:
The Plum tree, scientifically known as Prunus domestica, is a delightful and fruitful fruit tree that can thrive in the Arizona landscape, particularly in regions with a hot and arid climate. Plums are known for their sweet and juicy fruits, fragrant blossoms, and adaptability. They add a touch of sweetness, culinary versatility, and aesthetic beauty to gardens and outdoor spaces.

Key Features of Plum Trees:

1. Fruit: Plums come in various cultivars with different flavors, colors, and sizes. They are prized for their sweet and slightly tart flesh, which can be eaten fresh, used in desserts, jams, and preserves, or dried to make prunes.

2. Blossoms: Plum trees produce beautiful pink or white blossoms in the spring, adding ornamental value to the landscape.

3. Foliage: The trees have lush green foliage that provides shade and visual appeal to gardens.

Growing Plum Trees in Arizona:

1. Variety Selection: Choose plum tree varieties that are well-suited to the local climate and have good heat tolerance. Some suitable plum varieties for Arizona include 'Santa Rosa,' 'Satsuma,' and 'Methley.'

2. Planting Location: Select a sunny location for planting your plum tree, as fruit trees require full sun for optimal fruit production. Ensure the site has well-drained soil to prevent root rot.

3. Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by adding organic matter to improve its water retention and nutrient content. Plum trees prefer slightly acidic soil.

4. Watering: Plum trees in Arizona require regular and consistent watering, especially during the hot and dry summer months. Use a drip irrigation system to provide moisture directly to the root zone. Be cautious not to overwater to prevent root rot.

5. Fertilization: Apply fruit tree fertilizer according to recommended guidelines to provide essential nutrients for healthy growth and fruit production.

6. Pruning: Prune your plum tree to remove dead or diseased branches and to shape the canopy for better sunlight penetration and air circulation.

7. Pest and Disease Management: Keep an eye out for common pests and diseases that affect fruit trees, such as aphids and plum curculio. Implement appropriate pest control measures when necessary.

8. Harvesting: Plums should be harvested when they are fully ripe and have a sweet aroma. They are delicious when eaten fresh and can be used in a variety of culinary dishes.

The Plum tree's sweet and juicy fruits, beautiful blossoms, and lush foliage make it a valuable addition to gardens in Arizona. With proper care, including regular watering, fertilization, and pest management, plum trees can thrive and provide an abundance of sweet and delicious plums for culinary enjoyment, adding a burst of sweetness to the landscape.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Plum

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 8 hours of direct sunlight for optimal fruit production and growth)
• Soil: Well-drained, loamy or slightly acidic soil (pH 6.0-7.0)
• Spacing: Space trees 10-12 feet apart to allow for optimal growth and air circulation
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Plum trees may need light staking during early growth but become self-supporting once established

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 4-5 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 3-4 inches of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Plum trees are considered established after 6-8 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 7-10 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 5-7 days. Provide 3-4 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 3-4 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 18-24 inches away from the base of the tree for deep watering of the root zone
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 2-4 gallons per hour
• Number of Emitters: 2-3 emitters per tree for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering frequency to every 5-7 days. In winter, reduce to every 3-4 weeks