Various causes prevent plum blossom. Find out in this article which steps and methods lead to wonderful flowers.
Why isn't my plum tree blooming?
A plum tree will not bloom if it has been cut incorrectly, is over-fertilized, the grafting site is too deep or missing neighbors prevent flowers from forming. To encourage flowering, pay attention to proper pruning, avoid overfertilization, and choose self-fertile varieties or two different plum varieties.
Cut correctly
Over the course of the growing season, the plum tree produces different types of shoots. Make sure that the development of fruit shoots in particular is encouraged. Remove steep shoots in early autumn. In addition, new shoots can be gently spread using small weights. Through increased incidence of light, young shoots develop into strong fruit branches.
Note:
With this method, the side shoots reach an angle of 45 degrees. You will also receive the assimilates in the branch area. These provide the basis for the formation of flowers and fruits.
Overfertilization
The young plum tree does not need any fertilizer, mainly during the first few years. The root network develops stronger in a nutrient-poor soil. An annual application of compost covers the plum's nutrient needs. Furthermore, a free tree slice is cheap.
Avoid the following neighbors:
- Perennials
- Shrubs
- Flower bulbs (e.g. tulips and daffodils)
Note:
The supply roots are in the top layer of soil. These spread out approximately ten centimeters below the surface. A protective layer of grass mulch is recommended (€19.00 on Amazon). Bark mulch should be avoided.
Attention: Finishing
The finishing point must be at least ten centimeters above the ground. In addition, the flowering depends on the rootstock used. Depending on the type of tree, the plum blossom takes between four and eight years to arrive.
When all else fails
If the plum blossom doesn't appear, there is another option. Attach a fruit belt directly to the plum tree trunk. After frost, attach a wire directly to the trunk. To prevent it from growing in, the following materials are suitable:
- Foam
- Rubber
- Sheet metal
The fruit belt must be removed in autumn. A remarkable number of flower buds have formed by this moment for the following year.
It should be noted that this method can cause long-term damage to your plum tree. Consequences appear after around 20 years. There are no antidotes for these. The plum tree must be removed.
Tips & Tricks
In individual cases, missing neighbors are the cause of a lack of flowering. When planting new trees, self-fertile varieties are recommended. Alternatively, choose two different types of plums.
