Prunus domestica grows best in the garden, in a sunny location in fertile soil. Make sure the root ball is well-drenched before planting - soak it in a bucket of lukewarm water. Prepare a large hole and for the soil loosel. Improve poor garden soil by mixing in some garden compost and well-rotted manure. Plant the plum tree at the appropriate depth in the hole - the top of the root ball should be slightly below ground level. Give the tree a sturdy stake as support and wrap a tree belt around the stake and trunk. Fill the hole and press firmly in. Give it plenty of water immediately after planting. This plum tree will thrive in a nice sunny spot.

Prunus domestica is a strong plum tree. Each winter, apply a mulch of compost and granulated manure around the base of the trunk. Water more frequently during periods of drought. Remove any branches (suckers) growing from the roots. In July, thin the fruit by removing the smallest fruits so that all the energy goes to the larger ones. The plums can be picked in August. Pick them carefully, leaving the stems on. Make sure you do not remove any twigs or leaves, as this will also remove next season’s buds. Take care not to damage the plums and only pick ripe fruit - allow those that are still green to hang for a while.

Pruning your dwarf plum tree

You can prune this dwarf plum tree (Prunus domestica) annually or every other year, preferably in April-September. Heavy pruning is not necessary - only prune where strictly necessary. After picking all the fruit, completely remove vertical branches. Try to keep a fairly open crown. Using garden twine, bend down and fasten branches that are growing upright to promote a much better fruit production.

The plum tree is a beautiful spring bloomer. In March and April, the branches become completely covered with white blossom. The first pick of plums usually takes place in August. These plums can be eaten fresh,or are great for the table, preserves, chutney... or even wine making! Even the last few green plums can still make excellent jam. Plums are ideal for for making preserves. Their flesh is firm, juicy and very rich in vitamin C.