What To Know
- While purchasing a sapling is the quicker option, growing a governor plum from seed offers a unique experience.
- You’ll be actively involved in every stage of the tree’s growth, witnessing its transformation from a tiny seed into a majestic, fruit-bearing tree.
- Center the seedling in the hole and backfill with soil, ensuring the root ball is at ground level.
Are you ready to embark on a rewarding gardening adventure? Growing your own governor plum from seed is a fulfilling journey that allows you to witness the magic of nature firsthand. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, from seed preparation to nurturing your young plum tree into a bountiful fruit producer.
The Allure of Growing Governor Plum from Seed
Governor plums, known for their rich, sweet flavor and vibrant purple hue, are a delightful addition to any garden. While purchasing a sapling is the quicker option, growing a governor plum from seed offers a unique experience. You’ll be actively involved in every stage of the tree’s growth, witnessing its transformation from a tiny seed into a majestic, fruit-bearing tree. This process fosters a deeper connection with your plant and allows you to cultivate a tree that’s truly your own.
Gathering Your Seeds: The First Step
The journey begins with obtaining fresh governor plum seeds. You can acquire these from ripe plums purchased from a local market or your own garden.
Here’s how to extract the seeds:
1. Choose ripe plums: Select fully ripened plums that are soft and juicy.
2. Cut open the plums: Carefully slice the plums open and remove the pit.
3. Extract the seeds: Gently break the pit open to reveal the seeds.
Preparing the Seeds for Germination
Before planting, the seeds need a bit of preparation to enhance their germination rate. This involves a process called scarification, which weakens the seed coat and allows water and oxygen to penetrate.
Here’s how to scarify governor plum seeds:
1. Soak the seeds: Place the seeds in a bowl of warm water for 24 hours.
2. Scratch the seed coat: After soaking, use a sharp knife or sandpaper to lightly scratch the outer surface of the seed. This helps to break the hard seed coat.
3. Rinse and dry: Rinse the seeds thoroughly and allow them to air dry completely.
Planting the Seeds: A Journey Begins
With your prepared seeds ready, you can begin the planting process.
Here’s how to plant governor plum seeds:
1. Choose the right pot: Select a pot that’s at least 6 inches in diameter and has drainage holes.
2. Prepare the potting mix: Fill the pot with a well-draining potting mix suitable for fruit trees.
3. Plant the seeds: Sow the seeds about 1 inch deep and 2 inches apart in the pot.
4. Water thoroughly: Gently water the seeds, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
5. Place in a sunny location: Position the pot in a warm, sunny location, ideally with temperatures around 70-75°F.
Nurturing Your Young Plum Trees
Once the seeds are planted, patience and consistent care are key.
Here’s how to care for your young plum trees:
1. Maintain moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water regularly, especially during dry periods.
2. Provide adequate sunlight: Ensure the seedlings receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
3. Fertilize regularly: Use a balanced fertilizer specifically formulated for fruit trees every few weeks during the growing season.
4. Protect from pests and diseases: Monitor the seedlings for any signs of pests or diseases and take appropriate measures to control them.
Transplanting Your Plum Trees: A New Home
Once the seedlings have developed a strong root system and are about 6-12 inches tall, it’s time to transplant them into larger pots or directly into the ground.
Here’s how to transplant your plum trees:
1. Choose the right location: Select a spot that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily and has well-drained soil.
2. Prepare the planting hole: Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
3. Gently remove the seedling: Carefully remove the seedling from its pot, taking care not to damage the roots.
4. Place the seedling in the hole: Center the seedling in the hole and backfill with soil, ensuring the root ball is at ground level.
5. Water thoroughly: Water the newly transplanted tree deeply to settle the soil around the roots.
Pruning: Shaping Your Plum Tree
Pruning is an essential practice for maintaining the health and productivity of your plum tree. It helps to control its size, shape, and fruit production.
Here’s how to prune your plum tree:
1. Prune in late winter or early spring: Before the tree begins to bud, prune away any dead, diseased, or crossing branches.
2. Remove suckers: Regularly remove any suckers that grow from the base of the tree.
3. Thin out branches: Thin out overcrowded branches to allow sunlight and air circulation.
4. Shape the tree: Prune to create a desired shape, such as an open vase or central leader.
Harvesting Your Sweet Rewards: The Fruit of Your Labor
After a few years of growth and care, your governor plum tree will begin to bear fruit.
Here’s how to harvest your plums:
1. Check for ripeness: Plums are ripe when they are soft to the touch and have reached their full color.
2. Pick carefully: Gently twist the plums off the branches, leaving the stem attached.
3. Enjoy your harvest: Savor the sweet and juicy fruits of your labor!
Your Plum Tree Success Story: A Final Note
Growing a governor plum from seed is a rewarding journey that fosters a deep connection with nature. It requires patience, consistency, and a touch of love, but the sweet reward of fresh, homegrown plums is well worth the effort. Each stage of growth, from seed to fruit, offers a unique opportunity to learn and appreciate the wonders of the natural world.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take for a governor plum tree to produce fruit?
Governor plum trees typically start producing fruit after 3 to 5 years from planting.
2. Can I grow a governor plum tree in a container?
Yes, you can grow a governor plum tree in a container, but it will need regular pruning to keep its size manageable.
3. What are some common pests and diseases that affect governor plum trees?
Common pests include aphids, scale insects, and plum curculio. Diseases include brown rot, bacterial spot, and plum pox virus.
4. How do I know if my plum tree is getting enough sunlight?
If the leaves are pale green or yellowing, the tree may not be getting enough sunlight.
5. Can I use the seeds from store-bought plums to grow a tree?
Yes, you can use seeds from store-bought plums, but they may not be true to type, meaning the resulting tree may not produce the same kind of plums as the original.
