Overgrown plum stocks are just as tempting to harvest as the fruit trees in your own garden. But the different varieties ripen at different times, and even on one tree, the fruits are not ripe at the same time.
Plums can be picked from July
ripening times
The plum harvest extends from July to October and depends on the plum varieties planted. The main harvest time is in September. Early ripening varieties such as 'Yellow Egg Plum', 'Yellow Spilling' or 'Formosa Plum' make the start. Late breeds include 'Harbella' and 'Hanita'. The fruits are ready to harvest about two weeks after the beginning of the blue colouration.
What supports fruit development:
- Choose a wind-protected place with even sun exposure
- Plant out shrubs in autumn so that they take root well before winter
- carry out professional plant pruning in order to promote fruit ripening in the following year
pick fruit
The plums ripen depending on the light conditions. They develop a strong aroma in full sun. Because the amount of sunlight varies, you will find fruit at different stages of ripeness on a tree. Pick fully ripe specimens and leave the rest hanging on the branches. This way you can enjoy the yields for several weeks. If you miss the optimal time, the harvest is not worthless. Overripe stone fruits are suitable for plum jam
Utensils for harvesting
A woven wicker basket proves to be an aid when collecting. This ensures better ventilation and prevents water from collecting on the bottom. This keeps the plums fresh and already burst specimens don't rot as quickly. Due to the short shelf life, you should process the harvest promptly. The stone fruits can be stored a little longer in the refrigerator.
Whitish plums
The Prunus fruits have a so-called scent film. It is the whitish layer of wax that protects the fruit from drying out. This coating has nothing to do with the sweet scent. It is a sign of gentle treatment, because the film disappears as a result of abrasion. Occasionally harvest workers wear cloth gloves to protect the thin outer skin.
tips
Plums are more oval and elongated than plums and are suitable for further processing. With them, the pulp can be detached from the stone more easily than with their relatives.