Description
The Methley plum tree produces medium to large, round to conical clingstone fruit with a beautiful purple-red skin. The juicy red flesh has a sweet, mild flavour that is perfect to enjoy fresh or cooked into a jelly.
A cultivar of the Japanese plum, the Methley plum tree is a small, upright, spreading tree. Japanese plum trees have a rougher bark and more persistent spurs than European plums. The foliage is bright green and the white flowers are in umbel-like clusters of 2 or 3 on short spurs.
Methley plums are more vigorous and disease-resistant, and produce more flowers.
The Methley plum tree is self-fertile and is a good pollinator for early-bearing Japanese varieties. Japanese and European plums cannot cross-pollinate each other.
Harvesting
Fruiting begins when the tree is 2 to 4 years old. These trees produce heavy crops of juicy, fruit every year. You’ll need to pick them several times every season. They can be picked before they’re completely ripe, as they’ll ripen off the tree.
Position
The Methley plum can be grown in warmer climates as it needs only a short period of winter dormancy. The early bloom time makes it susceptible to late spring frosts.
Hot and humid climates are not suitable for growing plum trees, they do require cold winter locations.
The chill hours are calculated under 7° C in winter.
If your plum tree does not receive enough chill hours, its flowers may not open, or they may have only a few flowers that open.
This tree does best in full sun. Although it is self-fertile, it’s best to plant it in multiples to ensure a better crop.
Size
At maturity, the Methley plum tree has a height and canopy spread of up to 6 metres.
Soil Type
The Methley plum grows in various soil types and has some tolerance for heavy and waterlogged soils. It prefers a well-drained, loamy, mildly acidic soil.
Watering
Newly planted plum trees need consistent moisture for root establishment. Mature trees are drought-tolerant but still require regular watering, about 2-3cm per week. Water deeply to encourage deep root growth. Drip irrigation systems and soaker hoses are effective for providing consistent moisture. Water at the base of the tree to avoid wet foliage and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
Mulch
Apply organic mulch to your pear tree all year round.
Use from 2 to 5 centimetres of pine bark mulch to protect the roots from UV damage and drying out. It retains moisture, and maintains an optimal pH. Do not let the mulch touch the plant stem, as it may cause infection or rot..
Fertilising
Apply our slow-release Berry/All-plant Fertiliser. For young trees, apply 1 teaspoon every 4-5 months. The roots will absorb what they need.
Alternatively, apply a balanced fertiliser (such as 10-10-10) in early spring before new growth begins. Thereafter fertilise annually in early spring.
Pruning
The best time to prune plum trees is during winter dormancy to minimize disease risk. Light summer pruning can manage growth and improve light penetration, but heavy pruning should be avoided. Cut away dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Plum trees benefit from an open-center (vase-shaped) structure. Remove inner branches to allow light and air to penetrate the tree’s center. Remove crossing or rubbing branches.
For young trees, establish a strong framework; for mature trees, maintain the desired shape. When making cuts, cut back to a healthy bud and at a slight angle to promote healing. If the tree is getting too tall or wide, prune it to maintain a manageable size.
Remove no more than 20-30% of the tree’s canopy at one time. Over-pruning can stress the tree and reduce fruit production.
Pests
Keep an eye out for pests like the Curculio beetle, aphids, plum mites, and scale insects that can infest plum trees. Watch for signs of infestation and remove fallen fruit and debris to maintain good garden hygiene. Use traps and horticultural oil sprays to control pests.
We recommend Effective Microorganisms (EM Control) and organic Neem Oil to prevent and control the spread of pests and diseases.
EM Control puts you firmly on the green path when using it in your garden. EM is certified organic, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly. Because EM boosts the soil, your garden will flourish without the use of any chemicals. The soil’s vitality equals the vitality of the plants and fruits they produce. EM is a biocontrol measure, controlling pests by releasing microorganisms into the soil. With EM, pests and pathogens are controlled or suppressed by means of natural processes.
Agricultural Neem Oil is a powerful oil that is kind to your garden, fighting against even the most challenging infestations. Our Neem oil is an agricultural grade and is highly effective in controlling roughly 600 different types of insects! Targeted at insects that suck and chew leaves, it doesn’t extend its damage to the rest of the plant or its surrounds. It is Biodegradable, cold pressed and 100% organic.
