Why Spring Is the Best Time To Plant a Plum Tree

Plum trees are among the best fruit trees for new gardeners because most varieties require less attention and stay fairly small compared to other fruit trees. The state of California grows the majority of the plums in the US, but there are several different varieties, with at least one that will thrive in any region. No matter what type of plum you decide to grow, there are several reasons why spring is the best time to plant a plum tree.

Climate

You should first consider your climate when deciding to plant a plum tree. Many people claim that planting fruit trees in the fall is best, but planting a plum tree in the early spring ensures it’ll thrive shortly after you put it in the ground.

Plant Dormancy

The ideal time to plant a plum tree is in the early spring, while the tree is still dormant. Transplant shock frequently happens during the planting process. However, fruit trees experience less shock if you plant them during dormancy. Therefore, it’s never a good idea to plant a fruit tree while it’s still active, as it’s imperative to reduce the risk of potential shock and stress on the roots. Most nurseries won’t even ship a tree during its active season in an effort to prevent distress.

Better Establishment Period

The biggest reason why spring is the best time to plant a plum tree is to give it ample time to establish itself. When you plant a fruit tree in the fall, there’s a possibility it won’t cope well when the temperature drops suddenly in the winter. On the other hand, planting in the spring allows the tree plenty of time to thrive and grow all summer and fall to prepare for the cold temperatures in the winter.

Before deciding if you want to plant a plum tree on your property, be sure to get your timing just right. Check out Plant Me Green’s website for a plethora of plum fruit trees for sale. Feel free to reach out to us with any questions about what we do or to find the tree that’s right for you!