The Care and Cultivation of Ruby Cherry Plums

Cherry plums are a type of fruit that are often overlooked in favor of more popular fruits like apples, bananas, or oranges. However, they have a unique flavor that is tart and slightly sweet all at once. One of the most interesting varieties of cherry plums is the ruby cherry plum. This fruit has a bright red skin and a juicy flesh that is perfect for eating fresh or cooking with. In this article, we will explore the care and cultivation of ruby cherry plums, so you can enjoy them at home.

Understanding the Ruby Cherry Plum Tree

Ruby cherry plum trees are small to medium-sized deciduous trees that grow up to 20 feet tall. They have a rounded shape and a dense canopy that provides ample shade during hot summer months. The leaves of the ruby cherry plum tree are green and oval-shaped, with serrated edges. When the tree is in bloom, it produces small white flowers that give way to bright red fruit in the late summer or early fall.

To grow ruby cherry plums, you will need to plant a sapling in a sunny location with well-draining soil. The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged before planting the sapling. Once the tree is established, you can fertilize it with a balanced fertilizer every spring and prune it in the late winter or early spring to promote healthy growth.

Caring for Ruby Cherry Plums

Ruby cherry plums require regular watering to keep the soil moist. You should water the tree deeply once a week during dry spells, making sure to soak the soil around the root ball. Avoid getting the leaves wet when watering the tree, as this can promote fungal diseases.

In addition to regular watering, ruby cherry plums need regular fertilization to thrive. You can use a balanced fertilizer in the early spring and again in the early summer to encourage healthy growth and fruit production. Be careful not to over-fertilize the tree, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of fruit production.

Another important aspect of caring for ruby cherry plums is pest control. These trees are susceptible to a variety of pests, including aphids, scale insects, and spider mites. You can control these pests by using insecticidal soap or horticultural oil, which should be applied in the early morning or late evening when the temperature is cool. You should also remove any diseased or damaged fruit from the tree as soon as possible to prevent the spread of disease.

Harvesting and Using Ruby Cherry Plums

Ruby cherry plums are ready for harvest in the late summer or early fall, depending on the climate in your area. When the fruit is ripe, it will be slightly soft to the touch and have a deep red color. To harvest the fruit, simply twist it gently off the tree stem. Avoid picking fruit that is not fully ripe, as it will not have the same flavor or texture as ripe fruit.

Once you have harvested your ruby cherry plums, there are many ways to use them. They are delicious eaten fresh, either on their own or in salads. They also make excellent jams, jellies, and preserves. If you prefer savory dishes, you can use ruby cherry plums in sauces or marinades for meat dishes.

Ripe ruby cherry plums.

Ruby cherry plums are a delicious and versatile fruit that are easy to grow and care for. By following the tips and advice in this article, you can cultivate your own ruby cherry plum tree and enjoy its delicious fruit for years to come.

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