Growing plums in Missouri can be a rewarding experience for any gardener. With the right variety selection, soil preparation, and proper care, you can enjoy fresh, juicy plums from your backyard. This article will guide you through the entire process of growing plums in Missouri, covering everything from choosing the right cultivar to pest management.
Before planting plums, it’s essential to understand the different varieties available. The major types of plums are:
European Plums: These are often larger and sweeter and include varieties such as ‘Damson’ and ‘Stanley’. European plums generally require a more temperate climate but can do well in certain parts of Missouri.
Japanese Plums: Known for their vibrant colors and sweet flavor, Japanese plums like ‘Satsuma’ and ‘Burbank’ are particularly well-suited for Missouri’s climate. They are typically softer and ripen earlier than their European counterparts.
Hybrid Plums: These varieties are cross-bred between European and Japanese types, offering characteristics of both. They can be a great choice for gardeners looking for hardiness and unique flavors.
When selecting a variety, consider factors such as climate adaptability, disease resistance, and personal taste preferences.
Plum trees thrive best in full sunlight, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun each day. Therefore, choose a location that:
Conduct a soil test to evaluate pH levels; plum trees prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of around 6.0 to 7.0. If the soil is too acidic or alkaline, consider amending it with lime or sulfur as needed.
Soil preparation is crucial for plum tree development. Follow these steps to prepare your garden bed:
Clear the Area: Remove weeds, grass, and any debris from the selected area.
Test the Soil: Use a soil testing kit to determine pH and nutrient levels.
Amend the Soil: Based on your soil test results, amend it with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. This will improve drainage and provide essential nutrients.
Tilling: Till the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches to ensure proper aeration and root penetration.
Drainage Considerations: If your soil retains water or resembles clay, consider raised beds or mounding the soil to improve drainage.
Once your soil is ready, it’s time to plant your plum trees. Here’s how:
Timing: The best time to plant plum trees in Missouri is during early spring or late fall when temperatures are mild.
Spacing: Space your trees about 15 to 20 feet apart to allow ample room for growth.
Digging Holes: Dig holes that are twice as wide as the root ball of your tree but no deeper than the root ball itself.
Planting: Place the tree in the center of the hole and gently spread its roots outwards. Backfill with soil while ensuring that the graft union (the swollen area where the tree was grafted) is above ground level.
Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil around the roots.
Proper watering is critical for plum tree health:
Newly Planted Trees: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy until established (usually within the first year). Water deeply once or twice a week during dry spells.
Established Trees: Once mature, plum trees generally require about an inch of water per week during growing seasons. Use mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Plum trees benefit from regular fertilization:
Type of Fertilizer: Use a balanced fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Timing: Fertilize in early spring before new growth starts and again after harvest in late summer if necessary.
Application Rate: Follow package instructions based on tree age; younger trees need less fertilizer compared to older ones.
Organic Options: Alternatively, you can use organic fertilizers like bone meal or fish emulsion for a more natural approach.
Pruning is essential for maintaining healthy fruit production:
Timing: The best time to prune plum trees is during late winter while they are dormant.
Shape Development: Focus on creating an open center shape which allows sunlight penetration and air circulation within the canopy.
Remove Dead Wood: Eliminate any dead or diseased branches as you prune.
Thinning Fruit: To promote larger fruit size, thin developing plums by removing excess fruit clusters when they are about the size of a dime.
Common pests that may affect plum trees include aphids, plum curculio beetles, and spider mites:
Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Monitor plants regularly for signs of pests and implement IPM practices to manage them effectively without resorting solely to chemical pesticides.
Natural Predators: Encourage beneficial insects such as ladybugs that prey on aphids.
Chemical Control: If pest populations become excessive, consider using insecticidal soaps or neem oil as organic solutions before turning to synthetic options.
Disease Prevention: Keep foliage dry by watering at the base of plants rather than overhead spray; this helps prevent fungal diseases such as brown rot.
Plum harvesting typically takes place from mid-summer to early fall depending on the variety:
Ripeness Indicators: Ripe plums should yield slightly when pressed gently and have rich color based on their variety.
Picking Technique: Twist gently while pulling; avoid yanking them off as this can damage both fruit and tree branches.
Storage Tips: Store unripe plums at room temperature until they reach peak ripeness; ripe plums can be refrigerated for several days but are best enjoyed fresh!
Growing plums in Missouri allows home gardeners to enjoy delightful fruits while honing their gardening skills. By understanding local growing conditions, selecting appropriate varieties, preparing soil adequately, providing proper care throughout their lifecycle—from planting through harvest—you can cultivate delicious plums right in your backyard! With patience and attention to detail, you’ll reap a bountiful harvest season after season!