Description
The Wickson plum is a Japanese plum tree variety. The fruit are large heart shaped with a greenish-yellow outer skin. The flesh is a translucent colour and very sweet.
Japanese plum trees have a wider spread than European Plum trees, as the fruits also tend to be larger and juicier.
The Wickson Plum tree needs another variety of Japanese plum trees for cross-pollination. Santa Rosa works well as a pollinator.
Position
Warm winter climates are not suitable for growing plum trees, and they do require cold winter locations. Wickson is frost-hardy but cannot tolerate very heavy frost.
Plant a plum tree in full sun in a spot that is sheltered from the wind, if possible.
Size
Your plum tree can grow to a height of about 5 metres when mature.
Soil Type
Plum trees prefer a soil with a pH that ranges from 5.5 to 6.5. The average garden soil is around 6.5 to 7. Add a bag of acid compost to the hole to bring the pH down a little.
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.
Harvesting
From the time of the blossoms, plums take 3 to 4 months to ripen. They will go from being hard and green to purple and relatively soft. They will stay ripe on the tree for about 2 weeks, after which they’ll be overripe and will fall to the ground.
