Last Updated on September 30, 2022 by Griselda M.
How to grow a plum tree from fresh seed is one common question that most gardeners ask, and we are here to help you answer this question.
A plum tree is a deciduous fruit tree that has many different species and varieties, that are grown in different regions around the world. Plums are said to have originated from Iran and were brought to Britain from Asia.
They are very popular because of their beautiful and delicious fruits. The fruits are round, spherical, orange-yellow, or red and have a rich flavor. Plum trees are used for their flowers, leaves, bark, fruits, and wood. The fruits of plum trees are eaten fresh, dried, candied, and made into jams, jellies, wine, liqueurs, and brandy. The bark of plum trees is used to make medicines for treating various diseases.
With all that said, let us learn how to grow a plum tree from fresh seed.
Steps To Grow a Plum Tree From Fresh Seed
Step #1: Seed selection
The best fresh seed to select for growing your plum tree is a seed from a plum that is native to where you live. Choosing this seed will ensure that your plant has a better chance of survival because it is adapted to that environment. Buy a locally grown plum from your supermarket to get the best fresh seed for growing your plum tree.
Step #2: Eat the flesh of your plum
After purchasing your plum, eat the flesh around the fruit to expose the seed. Make sure that you clean off any flesh around the seed so that it is completely clean. Once you have cleaned your seed, put it on the window sill so that it can dry. This will make it easier for you to remove the shell.
Step #3: Remove the shell of the seed
After the seed has dried, use a nutcracker or any other tool to remove the shell of the seed. Be careful not to crush it too hard because you do not want to damage the seed.
Step #4: Check for seed viability
To be safe, select a few seeds instead of just one to check if they are viable. Do this by filling a bowl with water and throwing all your seeds in. The seeds that sink will germinate, discard all the ones that float because they are not good for germination.
Step #5: Germinate the seeds
Soak your seeds in room temperature water overnight to rehydrate them before they can be germinated. Prepare some potting soil and put it in a jar or a plastic bag, put the seeds in the soil, and make sure they are pushed deep into the soil.
Place your jar of seeds in a cold place such as the refrigerator to help start the germination process. Once your seeds start developing white roots, your plum is now ready to transplant.
Step #6: Transplant your plum seeds
After germination, prepare a permanent location for your plum tree. Select a location that is protected from frost because plums do not tolerate frost, and are also exposed to sunlight.
Dig a hole in the ground where there is well-draining soil that has been enriched with manure. Remove your seeds from the jar or plastic bag in which they germinated, and be careful not to break the small delicate roots that have developed while doing so.
Step #7: Plant your seeds in the ground
Plant your seeds in a hole that is deeper than the roots of the seeds. Cover the seeds with soil. If you are planting more than one tree, place them at least 20 feet apart to give them enough growing space.
Final step: Take care of your new plum tree
After planting your seeds in the ground, water regularly and never let the soil dry out as it may negatively impact the growth of your tree.
When the seedling pops through the soil, apply a thick layer of mulch around it to help keep it warm and retain soil moisture.
Give your young tree fertilizer during its growing seasons, in spring and summer so that it can grow big and strong.
Keep an eye out for any pests or fungi that may affect and damage your young plum tree. It will be best to catch infections or infestations while it is still early before they take over. This way you will have a better chance of saving your plant.
Take Home Message On How To Grow a Plum Tree From Fresh Seed
Growing your own plum tree from a plum that you ate is completely possible if you know what you need to do, and this article provides you with exactly the guidelines you need to do so. It will be a few years before you can harvest and enjoy your plum fruits but we can guarantee that your patience will definitely pay off when you finally do.
We hope this guide will be of the utmost help to you. If you enjoyed reading this article, please share it with your friends and family.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to germinate plum seeds?
Get a seed from a plum and dry it, remove the shell off the seed and soak the seed in water to rehydrate it before you can attempt to germinate it. Prepare a good mix of potting soil and manure, put your seed in the soil and put it in the refrigerator. The cooling process, called stratification will help germinate your plum seeds.
Can you grow a plum tree in a container?
Yes, we have been growing plum trees in containers for many years and the trees thrive in our climate. We can recommend a variety of containers that will suit your needs.
When to plant a plum tree?
Plums are hardy, and will grow well in most areas of the UK, provided you give them some shelter from wind and rain. They like well-drained soil and plenty of light. It is best to plant plums in spring or autumn, but they can be planted at any time between these dates.