Growing your own plums can be a rewarding experience, especially when you do it organically. Not only will you enjoy delicious, fresh fruit straight from your garden, but you’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing it’s free from harmful chemicals.
Who may be looking for healthier, more sustainable gardening practices, learning how to grow plums organically can be both enjoyable and beneficial. This guide will walk you through the simple steps needed to achieve a bountiful, organic plum harvest.
Choosing the Right Variety:
- Climate Considerations: Select a plum variety that is well-suited to your local climate. For example, ‘Santa Rosa’ and ‘Methley’ plums are popular choices for a wide range of climates in the USA.
- Pollination Needs: Some plum trees are self-pollinating, while others require a second tree for cross-pollination. Make sure to choose the appropriate type for your garden.
Planting Site and Soil Preparation:
- Optimal Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Plums need at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily to thrive.
- Soil Enrichment: Amend the soil with plenty of organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to provide nutrients and improve soil structure.
Planting Your Plum Tree:
- Planting Time: The best time to plant plum trees is in late winter or early spring while they are still dormant.
- Planting Technique: Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the tree’s root ball. Place the tree in the hole, fill it with soil, and water thoroughly.
Organic Care and Maintenance:
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the tree’s first few years. Deep watering is more effective than frequent, shallow watering.
- Mulching: Apply a thick layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and provide nutrients as it breaks down.
- Pruning: Prune your plum tree in late winter to early spring to remove dead or diseased branches, and to shape the tree for better air circulation and sunlight penetration.
Natural Pest and Disease Management:
- Companion Planting: Plant beneficial herbs and flowers like marigolds, nasturtiums, and garlic around your plum tree to deter pests.
- Organic Sprays: Use natural insecticides like neem oil or homemade garlic spray to manage pests. For diseases, a solution of baking soda and water can help control fungal issues.
Harvesting and Enjoying Your Plums:
- Harvest Time: Plums are typically ready to harvest in late summer. They should be fully colored, slightly soft to the touch, and easily twisted off the branch.
- Storing and Preserving: Enjoy your plums fresh, or preserve them by canning, freezing, or drying to enjoy them year-round.
How to Store Plums…
Unfortunately, the fruit does not store for long, so must be eaten or preserved. Alternatively, you can pick the fruits when they are still slightly firm and store them in a cool place to fully ripen.
The best place to store plums is in the refrigerator. The best temperature for storing plums is about 31° to 32°F with relative humidity around 90–95%; if kept at this temperature, plums may last for 2 to 4 weeks.
By following these simple steps, you can grow plums organically and enjoy a bountiful harvest without the use of harmful chemicals.
This approach not only benefits your health but also contributes to a healthier environment. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or new to organic gardening, these tips will help you cultivate delicious, healthy plums right in your backyard.
Happy gardening, and here’s to a fruitful harvest!