Key Features:
- Color: White flowers in spring; reddish-purple fruit with amber flesh.
- Fragrance: Lightly fragrant blossoms in spring.
- Wildlife Attraction: Attracts bees and butterflies; fruit may attract birds.
- Pest & Disease Resistance: Resistant to common plum diseases; moderate resistance to pests.
- Planting Zones: USDA zones 5-9.
- Sun Preferences: Full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily).
- Drought Tolerance: Moderate; requires regular watering during dry periods.
Bare Root Planting Instructions:
- Site Selection: Choose a well-draining location with full sun. Avoid areas prone to standing water.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil and amend with compost if needed. A pH range of 6.0-7.0 is ideal.
- Digging the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root system and deep enough to accommodate the roots without bending them.
- Planting: Position the tree so the graft union (if present) is 2-3 inches above the soil line. Spread the roots naturally.
- Backfilling: Refill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the roots while ensuring no air pockets remain.
- Watering: Water deeply after planting to settle the soil. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.
- Staking (if needed): Use a stake to support the young tree in windy areas.
- Pruning: Prune lightly to remove damaged branches and shape the tree for strong future growth.
Methley Plum Trees are an excellent choice for backyard growers looking for a reliable, productive, and visually appealing fruit trees.