Not the right time yet: plan to start in November, about 1 month away.
Growing Calendar
This month: Oct
Plan ahead for this crop
- •Check growing conditions
- •Prepare for next stage
Watch Out For
Silver leaf disease causes a silvery sheen on leaves and can kill branches. Only prune in dry weather from May to August, never in winter
Plum moth larvae tunnel into the fruit. Pheromone traps from May and picking up windfalls promptly both help control it
Heavy crops can snap branches under their own weight. Thin fruit and support heavily laden branches rather than letting them tear
Common Questions
About growing Plum in the UK
Do plum trees need a pollination partner?
Many, including 'Victoria', are self-fertile and will crop alone. Some varieties do need a partner, so check the specific variety before assuming.
Why did my plum tree drop fruit early?
Some natural fruit drop in June is normal, the tree shedding what it can't support. Heavier drop can mean the tree was under-watered while fruit was swelling, or that it's simply carrying more fruit than it can properly ripen.
Why shouldn't I prune plum trees in winter?
Winter pruning wounds are the main entry point for silver leaf disease, which can kill branches or the whole tree. Prune only in dry weather between May and August instead.
How long until a plum tree fruits?
Often the quickest of the common UK tree fruits to start cropping: as little as 2–3 years on a semi-dwarf rootstock.
Written from real growing experience, organic methods only. Our story · Our approach
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