Sustainable growth and abundant harvests are the results of correct pruning. From the second year onwards, this has a positive effect on the development of young plum trees. We give you practical tips on how to proceed correctly.
When and how should you prune a young plum tree?
When cutting a young plum tree, the ideal time is during dormancy from November to March. Remove lower side shoots, shorten the central shoot and cut back young shoots to promote he althy growth and a bountiful harvest.
Positive effects
Another advantage of regular pruning is that the tree develops a he althy balance between shoots and fruit. For this reason, the focus is on the appearance of the crown. If the branches are well trimmed, enough light reaches the shoots, leaves and flowers. As a result, the fruits ripen into sweet delicacies.
Blend in a targeted manner
The main thing is to remove all lower side shoots. These grow up to a maximum of 50 centimeters above the ground. Cut all branches that are growing steeply or are too close together directly above the pruning shears. In the next step, focus on the central shoot. The cutting tool (€38.00 at Amazon) should be placed approximately 40 centimeters above the highest side shoots.
Furthermore, cut back young shoots. These grow well on average for a maximum of one to two years.
Tip:
Be sure to remove old and gnarled branches. Hanging and bare branches have an unfavorable effect on growth.
Choose the right time
Plums are fruit trees. The dormant period between November and March is considered a suitable time for pruning. The resilient tree should not be cut under any circumstances except when there is frost. There is a risk that the wood will become brittle. The tree develops only weakly.
Note:
- ideal temperatures: the trees can tolerate zero degrees Celsius
- Autumn pruning: thin out well, shorten in spring
- Pruning in early spring: do not treat larger cuts as they grow together more quickly and thus the risk of infection of the fruit tree is reduced
Tips & Tricks
If your plum tree only sprouts weakly, it can be shortened more during the next pruning. This supports strong budding next spring.
