A mirabelle plum tree is a special ornament for every garden. In addition, its sweet fruits can be used in a variety of culinary ways. But the best thing is: with the right approach, you can easily grow delicious mirabelle plums.
How do I successfully plant a mirabelle plum tree?
To successfully plant a mirabelle plum tree, choose the right variety, prepare a sunny, protected location with an area of 18-20 square meters, plant the tree in spring or autumn and pay attention to the correct root ball and finishing position.
Choose the best variety
First you have to choose the best mirabelle plum variety. This depends on your individual conditions and wishes. Basically, all mirabelle plum species are among the so-called self-fertile plants. So you don't need a second tree for fertilization. “Nancy” is probably the best known and most popular variety. Their quite small fruits are characterized by good yields and prove to be very resistant to the Sharka disease, which is common in stone fruits. Alternatively, the “Migrande” variety is an optimal choice if you would like to obtain particularly large fruits. If, on the other hand, your focus is on the earliest possible and extended harvest period, then the Mirabelle “Bergthold” is particularly suitable.
Design the location appropriately
All mirabelle plums need a sunny location. They also accept light partial shade, but to promote abundant flowering, you should plant the tree in a location that is as sunny as possible. The more light the mirabelle plums get, the more beautiful and sweet the fruits are - regardless of the variety. Mirabelle plum trees also feel most comfortable in sheltered locations. That's why proximity to a wall, house wall or hedge proves to be an ideal location. It is also important to take the size of the future tree into account: mirabelle plums grow up to four meters wide with a very expansive crown. An area of 18 to 20 square meters should be available to plant a mirabelle plum. This is the only way the tree can fully develop in the center.
Planting mirabelle plums – this is how it works
- Plant your mirabelle plum tree preferably in spring or autumn. To do this, first dig a hole that is two to two and a half times the width and depth of the root ball. You then enrich the excavated soil with compost soil (€12.00 on Amazon). If the soil is heavily compacted, mix in some sand. This increases the permeability for water.
- Now put just enough of the improved soil back into the hole so that the grafting point of the mirabelle tree is about 10 centimeters above the surrounding soil level. Then pile up the remaining soil on and around the root ball. It is important that the tree stands as straight as possible in the ground.
- For straight and upright growth, you can attach the mirabelle plum to a post. Place this in the ground at a distance of around 50 centimeters from the trunk. Use a sturdy cord to secure the tree high up. However, avoid excessive tension that pulls the tree towards the post.
- Finally, water your new mirabelle tree generously. This completes the planting.
