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American Plum Tree

Prunus americana

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Original price $59.95 - Original price $799.50
Original price $119.90
$59.95 each
$59.95 - $599.63
Current price $59.95 each

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Will thrive in

Not suited for outdoor growing in

Select Size: 2-3 Feet 24-36" Tall
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The American Plum Tree is a small fruit tree that offers a variety of benefits for your yard. It produces white flowers in spring and tart plums in summer that are delicious fresh or perfect for jams and pies. This easy-to-care-for tree is resilient to many diseases and thrives in a variety of well-drained soils.

American Plum Tree: Vibrant Blooms & Juicy Plums Year After Year

In just a few short years you’ll be stepping into your backyard being greeted by a cascade of white flowers in spring, followed by plump, juicy plums perfect for summer pies. The American Plum Tree isn’t just beautiful, it’s functional. This low-maintenance beauty thrives in most soils and offers a sweet reward for minimal effort. Plus, its dense root system helps prevent erosion, saving you time and money while creating a vibrant haven for you and your family.

  • Beautiful spring flowers and delicious summer fruit
  • Easy to care for, resists diseases and grows in many soils
  • Stops soil erosion with strong roots, perfect for slopes or rainy areas
  • Grows 15-25 feet tall, needs full sun for best results
  • Enjoy homegrown plums or make jams, jellies and delicious pies

While the American Plum Tree doesn’t boast the biggest fruit, don’t let its size fool you. These plums pack a surprising punch of flavor. Imagine biting into a one-inch, round plum with a tart, reddish-purple skin. The initial bite gives way to a burst of sweet and juicy flesh, a delightful contrast that makes them wonderful for eating fresh. However, their true magic lies in their versatility. Don’t be discouraged by the tartness – they transform beautifully from tart to sweet when cooked. Their unique flavor profile shines in jams, jellies, and pies, adding a depth of complexity that store-bought varieties just can’t match.

The American Plum Tree is more than just a source of delicious fruit, it’s a magnet for beautiful birds and playful creatures. Imagine the joy of watching buzzing bumblebees dance around its fragrant flowers in spring, or the sight of a family of robins flitting between branches, enjoying the sweet reward your tree provides. This isn’t just about adding beauty to your yard; it’s about creating a vibrant ecosystem that fosters life and brings a touch of the wild right to your doorstep.

American Plum Tree Planting Distance

Image demonstrates how far apart to plant American Plum Tree

How to Plant American Plum Tree

Choose the Right Spot

American Plum Trees thrive in full sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. This ensures optimal growth, flower production, and fruit development.

These adaptable trees can tolerate a variety of well-drained soils. They perform best in slightly acidic to neutral soil with good drainage. Avoid planting in constantly wet or poorly drained areas.

Measure the Space

American Plum Trees can reach 15-25 feet tall at maturity. Allow ample space for your tree to grow to its full size. Plant American Plum Trees at least 25 feet apart from other trees and structure

Dig the Hole

Dig a hole 2-3 times wider than the root ball of your American Plum Tree. This allows the roots to spread out easily and establish themselves properly. The depth of the hole should be slightly deeper than the root ball. The root flare (where the trunk widens at the base) should be level with the surrounding soil after planting.

Plant It

Gently remove the tree from its container. Be careful not to damage the root ball. Place the tree in the prepared hole. Make sure the root flare is at the same level as the surrounding soil. Fill the hole with the original soil. Pack the soil firmly around the roots.

Water Thoroughly

Water the newly planted tree deeply. This helps settle the soil around the roots and provides essential moisture for the tree to establish itself. Continue watering regularly. Water the tree once or twice a week, depending on the weather. Aim to keep the soil moist but not soggy.

Mulch and Care

Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree. This helps to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the roots from extreme temperatures. Keep the mulch away from the trunk. Mulching can lead to rot if it touches the trunk. Monitor your tree for pests and diseases. Take action as needed to prevent or treat any problems.

Why Choose American Plum Tree?

The American Plum Tree is incredibly easy to care for, thriving in various soil conditions and requiring minimal maintenance. Don’t miss out on the chance to transform your yard into a haven of beauty, deliciousness, and life. Order your American Plum Tree today and start making memories that will last a lifetime.

Watering

In the first year, deeply soak the soil around the tree once a week to encourage strong root growth. After that, water deeply every other week unless there’s significant rainfall. Aim for moist, not soggy soil. Reduce watering in winter when the tree goes dormant.

Sunlight

Your American Plum Tree thrives with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. This ensures healthy growth and abundant fruit production.

Mulching

Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree, keeping it away from the trunk. Replenish the mulch layer as needed to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Pruning

Prune your tree in late winter before new growth appears. Remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches, and thin out crowded branches to allow for better air circulation and light penetration.

Fertilizing

Feed your tree a balanced fertilizer once a year in early spring to promote healthy growth and fruit production. Monitor your tree’s health and adjust fertilization as needed.

Pest and Disease Control

Keep an eye out for common pests and diseases. Use organic methods whenever possible, and only resort to chemical controls as a last resort. Early detection and intervention are key.

Protection

If you have deer or other wildlife in your area, consider fencing or using tree guards to protect your tree from browsing damage, especially during the winter months.

Upon Arrival

Give your newly arrived American Plum Tree a long, slow drink. Let the hose trickle at the base of the tree until the water soaks deeply into the surrounding soil.

In the First Year

Consistent moisture is crucial for establishing a strong root system. Water your young tree deeply once a week, soaking the soil thoroughly. Aim to keep the soil moist but not soggy.

After the First Year

Established American Plum Trees are fairly drought tolerant. Once a week to once every two weeks should suffice, depending on rainfall. Deep watering is still essential, so aim to soak the soil all around the root zone.

Seasonal Adjustments

Reduce watering in the fall and winter as the tree goes dormant. During hot, dry summers, you may need to water more frequently to prevent stress. Monitor your tree and adjust watering based on weather conditions.

Upon Arrival

Hold off on fertilizer for the first 4-6 weeks after planting your American Plum Tree. Let it settle in and establish its root system before giving it a boost.

During the First Year

Once spring arrives and the threat of frost has passed, feed your tree a balanced fertilizer like a 10-10-10 mix. Follow the application instructions based on the size of your tree. Spread the fertilizer evenly under the tree canopy, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk. Water the area well after fertilizing to help the nutrients reach the roots.

After the First Year

Continue with the annual spring fertilization routine. If your tree is thriving and producing good fruit, you can stick with the same amount of fertilizer. If the growth seems stunted or the leaves look pale, consider a soil test to identify any nutrient deficiencies and adjust the fertilizer accordingly. Keep an eye on your tree’s health throughout the season. Over fertilizing can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of fruit production.

Extra Tips

Supplement your annual fertilizing with organic matter like compost spread around the base of the tree in fall. This decomposes slowly, providing sustained nourishment and improving soil health over time. Remember, more isn’t always better – excessive fertilization can harm your tree and the surrounding environment.

When to Prune

Prune your American Plum Tree in late winter, ideally between February and March, before new growth begins. This allows the tree to heal properly before spring arrives.

Tools You’ll Need

Sharp pruning shears for smaller branches and a lopper for thicker branches. Make sure your tools are disinfected with rubbing alcohol to prevent the spread of disease.

Steps to Prune

Remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches. These detract from the tree’s health and appearance. Thin crowded branches. This allows for better air circulation and light penetration, encouraging healthy fruit production. Cut back any suckers (shoots growing from the rootstock). Shorten upright water shoots (fast-growing, vertical branches) to promote fruit production on lower branches. Make clean cuts at a 45-degree angle just above a healthy outward-facing bud.

After Pruning Care

Apply a light coat of pruning sealer to larger cuts to help prevent disease and promote healing.

Extra Tips

Avoid heavy pruning, especially in the first few years, as this can delay fruit production. Focus on removing problem branches and shaping the tree for optimal growth. If you’re new to pruning, consider consulting a certified arborist for guidance on proper techniques.

How long does it take for an American Plum Tree to produce fruit?
Most American Plum Trees will start producing fruit 3-4 years after planting, sometimes sooner with good care.
How much sun does an American Plum Tree need?
American Plum Trees thrive with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. This ensures healthy growth and abundant fruit production.
What type of soil does an American Plum Tree prefer?
These adaptable trees can grow in a variety of well-drained soils. They perform best in slightly acidic to neutral soil with good drainage. If your soil is heavy clay, consider amending it with sand or planting your tree in a raised bed.
How big does an American Plum Tree get?
At maturity, American Plum Trees typically reach 15-25 feet tall and wide.
Are American Plum Trees self-pollinating?
No, American Plum Trees are not self-pollinating. You will need to plant at least two trees of compatible varieties within 50 feet of each other to ensure good fruit production.
How do I care for the fruit of an American Plum Tree?
Once your plums reach full color and begin to soften slightly, they’re ready to harvest. You can enjoy them fresh, use them in baking, or make jams and jellies.
How do I overwinter an American Plum Tree?
Young trees may benefit from a light layer of mulch around the base (a few inches away from the trunk) to protect the roots from harsh winter temperatures. Established trees are generally quite winter hardy.
What are some common pests and diseases that affect American Plum Trees?
Keep an eye out for common problems like aphids, tent caterpillars, and fungal diseases like black knot. Early detection and intervention are key! Use organic methods whenever possible and only resort to chemical controls as a last resort.
How long does an American Plum Tree live?
With proper care, American Plum Trees can live for 40-50 years, offering delicious fruit and beauty for generations to come.

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