How to Plant Plum Pits?
Planting plum pits requires a process of stratification to break dormancy, followed by planting in a well-drained soil, and patient care over several years to yield fruit; expect variation in fruit quality from seed-grown trees.
Understanding Plum Pit Propagation
Growing plum trees from seed (plum pits) is a rewarding, albeit lengthy, process. Unlike purchasing a grafted tree from a nursery, starting from seed offers the opportunity to observe the full genetic expression of the plum variety. This can result in unique fruit characteristics, but it also means the offspring may not perfectly resemble the parent tree. Understanding the nuances of this process is crucial for success.
The Benefits of Planting Plum Pits
While most commercial plum production relies on grafting (combining a desired fruit-bearing variety with a compatible rootstock), there are several reasons why you might want to try growing plum trees from seed:
- Experimentation: Seed-grown trees can offer novel fruit flavors and characteristics.
- Rootstock Creation: You can use seed-grown trees as rootstock for grafting your favorite plum varieties later.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Seeds are free if you already have access to plums!
- Personal Satisfaction: There’s a unique sense of accomplishment in nurturing a tree from its very beginning.
The Stratification Process: Breaking Dormancy
Plum pits require a period of cold, moist stratification to break dormancy. This process mimics winter conditions and prepares the seed for germination. Without stratification, the seed will likely remain dormant and fail to sprout.
Steps for Stratification:
- Gather Plum Pits: Obtain ripe plums from a desired variety. Clean the flesh from the pits.
- Dry the Pits: Allow the pits to dry for a few days. This helps prevent mold growth during stratification.
- Prepare Stratification Medium: Use a moist (not wet) medium such as:
- Peat moss
- Vermiculite
- Sand
- Layer the Pits: Place the pits in a container of the stratification medium, ensuring they are surrounded by the moist material.
- Cold Storage: Place the container in the refrigerator (ideally around 35-45°F or 2-7°C) for at least 90 days, and preferably longer, up to 120 days. Check periodically to ensure the medium remains moist.
- Inspect for Germination: After the stratification period, check for signs of germination (a small root emerging).
Planting Germinated Plum Pits
Once the stratification period is complete and some seeds have started to germinate, you’re ready to plant.
- Prepare Planting Containers: Use small pots (around 4 inches in diameter) filled with a well-draining potting mix.
- Plant the Pits: Plant the pits about 1 inch deep in the soil, with the small root pointing downward if germinated.
- Water Gently: Water the soil thoroughly but gently, avoiding overwatering.
- Provide Sunlight: Place the pots in a sunny location or under grow lights.
- Monitor Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Growing Plum Seedlings
Once the seedlings emerge, they require ongoing care to thrive.
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Fertilizing: Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength every few weeks during the growing season.
- Pest and Disease Control: Monitor for common plum tree pests and diseases and take appropriate action.
- Repotting: As the seedlings grow, repot them into larger containers.
Transplanting to the Garden
After a year or two of growth in containers, the plum seedlings can be transplanted to the garden.
- Choose a Location: Select a sunny location with well-drained soil.
- Prepare the Planting Hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
- Plant the Tree: Gently remove the tree from the container and place it in the hole. Backfill with soil and water thoroughly.
- Stake the Tree: Stake the tree to provide support and protect it from wind.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Inadequate Stratification: Failing to properly stratify the plum pits will result in poor germination.
- Overwatering: Overwatering can lead to root rot.
- Insufficient Sunlight: Plum seedlings need plenty of sunlight to grow.
- Neglecting Pest and Disease Control: Early detection and treatment of pests and diseases is crucial.
- Expecting Identical Fruit: Remember, seed-grown trees may not produce fruit identical to the parent tree.
Timeline for Fruit Production
Growing plum trees from seed is a long-term commitment. It can take 5-10 years or even longer for a seed-grown plum tree to produce fruit. Grafting considerably shortens this timeline, typically producing fruit within 2-4 years, as it bypasses the juvenile phase of the tree’s development.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does plum stratification take?
Plum pits typically require 90-120 days of cold stratification. Shorter periods may result in poor germination rates. Monitor the moisture levels of your stratification medium throughout the process.
Can I plant plum pits directly in the ground in the fall?
Yes, you can plant plum pits directly in the ground in the fall, mimicking the natural stratification process. However, your germination rates may be lower and you’ll have less control over the environment. Protect the area from rodents and ensure good drainage.
What type of soil is best for plum trees?
Plum trees thrive in well-drained, loamy soil with a slightly acidic pH (around 6.0-6.5). Avoid heavy clay soils, which can lead to root rot. Amending the soil with compost or other organic matter can improve drainage and fertility.
How much sunlight do plum trees need?
Plum trees need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to produce abundant fruit. Insufficient sunlight can result in poor fruit set and reduced growth. Choose a planting location that receives full sun throughout the day.
Do I need to prune my plum tree grown from seed?
Yes, pruning is essential for shaping the tree, removing dead or diseased branches, and promoting fruit production. Prune during the dormant season (late winter or early spring) to encourage new growth and improve air circulation.
Are plum trees self-pollinating?
Some plum varieties are self-pollinating, while others require cross-pollination with a different plum variety. Research the pollination requirements of your specific plum variety to ensure successful fruit set.
How often should I water my plum tree?
Water plum trees regularly, especially during dry periods. Mature trees need deep watering once or twice a week during the growing season. Young trees require more frequent watering.
What are common plum tree pests and diseases?
Common plum tree pests include aphids, plum curculio, and spider mites. Common diseases include brown rot, black knot, and leaf spot. Monitor your trees regularly for signs of infestation or disease and take appropriate action.
Can I graft a plum tree seedling?
Yes, grafting is a great way to ensure you get the desired fruit variety. You can graft a branch from your favorite plum tree onto your plum seedling to ensure the fruit will be identical to the original tree.
How do I protect my plum tree from frost?
Protecting young plum trees from late spring frosts is crucial. You can cover the tree with a blanket or burlap sack, or use frost protection devices such as sprinklers or tree wraps.
What should I do if my plum tree doesn’t produce fruit?
Several factors can contribute to a lack of fruit production, including inadequate pollination, insufficient sunlight, poor soil, and improper pruning. Evaluate each factor and take corrective action as needed.
Is it safe to eat the plums grown from a seed that came from a store-bought plum?
While safe to eat, the plums grown from a seed from a store-bought plum may not resemble the parent fruit in taste, size, or quality due to genetic variation. Expect surprises!