Wild plum stocks are just as tempting to harvest as the fruit trees in your own garden. But different varieties ripen at different times and even on one tree the fruits are not ripe at the same time.
When and how do you harvest plums?
Plums should be harvested from July to October, with the main harvest time being in September. Harvest fully ripe plums from sunny locations for a strong flavor and leave the rest hanging on the branches for later. Use a wicker basket for a gentle harvest.
Maturation times
The plum harvest extends from July to October and depends on the plum varieties planted. The main harvest time is in September. Early ripening varieties such as 'Yellow Egg Plum', 'Yellow Spilling' or 'Formosa Plum' are the beginning. The late varieties include 'Harbella' and 'Hanita'. The fruits are ready to harvest about two weeks after the blue color begins.
What supports fruit development:
- Choose a place protected from the wind and with even sunlight
- Plant out trees in autumn so that they grow well before winter
- Carry out professional plant pruning to promote fruit ripening in the following year
Picking fruits
The plums ripen depending on the lighting conditions. In full sun locations they develop a strong aroma. Because sunlight varies, you will find fruit in different stages of ripeness on a tree. Pick fully ripe specimens and leave the rest hanging on the branches. This way you can enjoy the yields over several weeks. If you missed the optimal time, the harvest is not worthless. Overripe stone fruits are suitable for plum jam
Utensils for harvesting
A woven wicker basket proves to be helpful when collecting. This ensures better ventilation and prevents water from collecting on the floor. This means the plums stay fresh and those that have already split open do not rot as quickly. Due to the short shelf life, you should process the harvest promptly. The stone fruits can be stored for a little longer in the refrigerator.
Whitish plums
The Prunus fruits have a so-called scent film. It is the whitish wax layer that protects the fruit from drying out. This coating has nothing to do with the sweet smell. It is evidence of gentle treatment, as the film disappears through abrasion. Occasionally, harvest workers wear cloth gloves to protect the thin outer skin.
Tip
Plums are more oval and elongated than plums and are suitable for further processing. With them, the pulp can be removed from the stone more easily than with their relatives.
