How to Plant Beach Plum Trees

Beach plums (Prunus maritima) are a small fruit tree that grows on the coast of the eastern United States. They are known for their hardiness and the delicious fruit they produce. If you want to grow your own beach plum trees, there are a few things you should know before you start.

Choose the Right Site

Beach plum trees need well-draining soil and full sun to thrive. When choosing a site to plant your trees, look for an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Avoid planting your beach plum trees in areas that tend to stay wet, as they do not tolerate wet feet well.

Prepare the Soil

Before you plant your beach plum trees, you'll need to prepare the soil. Start by removing any grass or weeds from the area where you'll be planting. Next, add a layer of compost or aged manure to the soil to improve its fertility. Mix the compost or manure into the soil well.

Plant Your Trees

To plant your beach plum trees, dig a hole that's twice as wide and deep as the root ball of the tree. Place the tree in the hole, making sure the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole with soil and pack it down firmly to eliminate any air pockets.

Water Your Trees

After planting your beach plum trees, give them a good watering. Water the trees every two to three days for the first two weeks to help them establish a strong root system. After that, you can water your trees once a week, or as needed, depending on the weather and soil moisture levels.

Maintain Your Trees

Beach plum trees don't require a lot of maintenance, but there are a few things you can do to help them thrive. Prune your trees in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged wood, and to shape the tree as desired. Fertilize your trees once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Keep an eye out for pests or diseases, and address any issues promptly.

Harvest Your Fruit

Beach plum trees usually start producing fruit in their third or fourth year after planting. The fruit ripens in late summer or early fall, depending on your location. To harvest the fruit, simply pick it from the tree when it's ripe. Beach plums can be eaten fresh, used to make jam or jelly, or frozen for later use.

By following these simple steps, you can grow your own beach plum trees and enjoy the delicious fruit they produce for years to come.