Plum trees, deciduous fruit trees, are cultivated in various regions of China with numerous varieties. Plums can be consumed fresh or processed into canned goods and dried fruits, providing year-round consumption opportunities and promising market prospects. Below, we will introduce the best time and methods for planting plum trees. Let's delve into it together.
Best Time for Planting
Plum trees prefer warm growing environments, and planting is typically done between April and May in the spring when the climate is mild, facilitating rapid adaptation to the new environment and resumption of growth. Planting in the autumn is also feasible in southern regions, with normal sprouting occurring in the following spring. The optimal transplanting period is from November to early March of the next year. Transplanting too early may prevent the plum seedlings from entering dormancy, and the stems may not have fully lignified. Transplanting too late, on the other hand, may result in sprouting with adverse effects on survival rates due to rising temperatures.
Planting Methods
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Root Treatment: Before planting plum seedlings, remove the grafting tape and trim the roots, pruning the main roots and excessively long lateral roots appropriately. Additionally, soak the seedling roots in rooting water for about an hour. Then, dip the seedling roots in a 0.5% copper sulfate solution to sterilize and promote rooting and survival.
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Planting: Dig a hole about 10cm deep for planting. Spread the roots of the plum seedling flat in the planting hole, burying them firmly with fine soil and compacting them. Then, water the seedlings thoroughly to settle the roots. Finally, cover with a layer of fine soil, making sure not to cover the grafting point, which must remain exposed above the soil.
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Post-Planting Management: After planting, spray the plum seedlings with seaweed nutrient solution 1-2 times to effectively heal wounds and promote root growth, enhancing seedling survival rates. After planting, it is necessary to perform trunk pruning at a height of 40-50cm above the soil surface.
In conclusion, when planting plum trees, growers should irrigate promptly based on the growth status of the plum seedlings and soil moisture conditions. Additionally, timely fertilization after sprouting and attention to disease and pest control during the seedling stage are essential tasks.
