Description
The Plumcot is a hybrid fruit combination of a plum and an apricot. Luther Burbank developed the idea of cross-pollinating these two summer fruits in the late 19th Century to early 20th Century. Plumcots have plum-coloured skin, whereas the flesh is a vibrant red colour. Plumcots are best enjoyed fresh as they are extremely sweet and juicy.
It does require a pollinator and the Santa Rosa is recommended.
Harvesting
Plums take 3 to 4 months to ripen after blossoms appear. They will go from being hard and green to purple and relatively soft. They will stay ripe on the tree for about two weeks, after which they’ll be overripe and fall to the ground.
Position
Plum trees require relatively cold winters. The chill hours are calculated under 7° degrees 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.
Plant a plumcot tree in full sun in a spot sheltered from the wind, if possible.
Size
Your plumcot tree can grow to about 4 metres tall when mature.
Soil Type
Plumcot trees prefer 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 bring the pH down a little.
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.
Watering
Newly planted pear trees need frequent watering to establish their root systems. Water them deeply once a week during their first growing season. Ensure the soil stays consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Established Trees: Once established, pear trees are less needy but still require regular watering, especially during dry periods. A mature pear tree generally needs about 1 inch of water per week from rainfall or supplemental irrigation.
Water deeply to encourage deep root growth. Shallow watering can lead to shallow roots, which makes the tree more susceptible to drought. Apply water slowly to allow it to penetrate the soil thoroughly. Drip irrigation systems deliver water directly to the root zone, minimizing water wastage and reducing the risk of fungal diseases that can occur with overhead watering.
The frequency of watering depends on the weather, soil type, and tree age. Sandy soils drain quickly and may require more frequent watering, while clay soils retain moisture longer.
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.
Thinning Fruit
Thin fruit in early summer when they are small, to promote larger, healthier fruit and prevent branch breakage due to excessive weight.
Pruning
Cut your tree to about four healthy shoots every winter, and thin out excess and unruly spurs. This encourages fruit and flowers to grow.
Pests and Diseases
Regularly inspect your plum trees for signs of pests and diseases.Curculio beetle, aphids, plum mites, and scale insects can infest plum trees. Watch for signs of infestation and remove fallen fruit and debris to maintain good garden hygiene.
Prune trees to improve air circulation and reduce the spread of diseases. Remove and destroy infected plant debris to reduce disease spread.
Treat promptly or preferably use preventative measures by spray with agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM Control)
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.
