How to Grow Plums in February: Tips, Advice, and the Best Varieties

How to Grow Plums in February: Tips, Advice, and the Best Varieties

Plums are a versatile and delicious fruit, perfect for fresh eating, baking, and preserving. Known for their sweet, juicy flavor and attractive blossoms, plum trees are a wonderful addition to any garden. February is the ideal time to plant bare-root plum trees, prune established trees, and prepare for a productive growing season.

This guide will provide all the information you need to grow plums successfully in February, including the best varieties, planting techniques, care tips, and harvesting advice.

Introduction: Why Grow Plums in February?

February is the perfect month for planting and caring for plum trees because they are dormant, making it easier to transplant and prune them without causing stress. With proper preparation, plum trees can thrive in a variety of climates, rewarding you with bountiful harvests and stunning spring blossoms.

1. Choosing the Best Plum Varieties

Plum varieties are classified into dessert, cooking, and dual-purpose types. Choosing the right variety depends on your taste preferences, climate, and space availability.

1.1 Dessert Plums

‘Victoria’: A classic UK variety with sweet, yellow flesh and red skin.
‘Opal’: Early-ripening with small, flavorful fruit ideal for fresh eating.

1.2 Cooking Plums

‘Czar’: Produces tart, purple-skinned fruit perfect for jams and baking.
‘Blue Tit’: A reliable cropper with tangy fruit great for preserves.

1.3 Dual-Purpose Plums

‘Marjorie’s Seedling’: A late-season variety suitable for both eating fresh and cooking.
‘Greengage’: Known for its rich, honey-like flavor and versatility.

1.4 Dwarf and Compact Varieties

‘Pixy’ Rootstock: Ideal for small gardens or containers.
‘Black Amber’: Compact growth with large, sweet fruit.

2. Planting Plum Trees in February

2.1 Bare-Root Plum Trees

Planting bare-root plum trees in February gives them time to establish roots before spring growth begins.

How to Plant:
1. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
2. Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball.
3. Position the tree in the hole, ensuring the graft union (the swollen area above the roots) is above the soil line.
4. Backfill with soil, firm gently, and water thoroughly.
5. Stake the tree for support, especially in windy areas.

2.2 Container Planting

Use a large pot (at least 18 inches wide and deep) with good drainage.
Fill with a mix of loamy soil and compost, and plant a self-fertile or compact variety.

3. Pruning Plum Trees in February

Pruning is essential for maintaining the health and productivity of plum trees.

3.1 Pruning Tips

Remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches.
Thin overcrowded areas to improve airflow and light penetration.
For young trees, shape the tree into an open-center or vase shape.

3.2 Avoid Over-Pruning

Avoid removing too much at once, as plums are prone to gumming (sap leakage).
Prune lightly to maintain structure without stressing the tree.

4. Caring for Plum Trees

4.1 Watering

Water newly planted trees regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Mature trees require less frequent watering, except during dry spells or fruiting.

4.2 Feeding

Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth.
Add a potassium-rich feed when flowers and fruit begin to develop.

4.3 Mulching

Add a 2–3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.

4.4 Pollination

Some plum varieties are self-fertile, while others require a pollination partner.
Plant compatible varieties nearby or ensure access to pollinators like bees.

5. Protecting Plum Trees from Pests and Diseases

5.1 Common Pests

Aphids: Spray with insecticidal soap or encourage natural predators like ladybirds.
Plum Moth: Use pheromone traps to monitor and reduce infestations.

5.2 Common Diseases

Brown Rot: Prune affected branches and remove any infected fruit.
Silver Leaf: Remove infected branches and disinfect pruning tools.

6. Harvesting Plums

6.1 When to Harvest

Plums are ready to harvest when they are fully colored, slightly soft to the touch, and easily detach from the tree.
Harvest times vary by variety, typically from late summer to early autumn.

6.2 How to Harvest

Pick plums by hand, being careful not to bruise the fruit.
Use scissors or secateurs if the fruit does not come away easily.

6.3 Storing Plums

Fresh plums can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.
For longer storage, freeze plums whole or sliced in airtight containers.

7. Benefits of Growing Plums

Delicious and Versatile: Plums are great for fresh eating, baking, preserving, and more.
Beautiful Blossoms: Plum trees provide stunning springtime flowers that attract pollinators.
Compact Options: Dwarf varieties make plums accessible to small-space gardeners.
Long-Lived Trees: With proper care, plum trees can produce fruit for 20–30 years.

Conclusion: Start Growing Plums for a Sweet and Abundant Harvest

Growing plums in February is the perfect way to prepare for a productive year. By planting bare-root trees, pruning correctly, and providing proper care, you’ll enjoy years of delicious fruit and beautiful blossoms. Whether you prefer dessert or cooking varieties, plums are a rewarding and valuable addition to any garden.

Happy gardening! 🌸🍑