When to Plant Purple Leaf Plum Trees

Purple leaf plum trees, also known as Prunus cerasifera, are a stunning addition to any garden. These trees have beautiful purple foliage and produce small, pink flowers in the spring. If you're thinking about planting a purple leaf plum tree in your yard, there are a few things you need to consider before you begin.

Choosing the Right Time to Plant

The best time to plant purple leaf plum trees is in the fall, typically in late October or early November. This is because the soil is still warm from the summer months and the tree can establish its roots before the cold winter months set in. Planting in the fall also means that the tree will be ready to bloom in the spring.

However, if you missed the fall planting window, you can also plant purple leaf plum trees in the spring. The best time to plant in the spring is during the month of March, before the tree starts to bud. If you plant later in the spring, the tree may not have enough time to develop strong roots before the hot summer weather sets in.

Choosing the Right Location

Purple leaf plum trees thrive in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. When choosing a planting location for your tree, make sure it has access to at least six hours of sunlight per day. The tree also needs well-draining soil.

If you live in an area with heavy clay soil, it's a good idea to amend the soil with organic matter such as compost or aged manure. This will improve the soil's drainage and provide the tree with nutrients.

Planting Your Purple Leaf Plum Tree

When planting your purple leaf plum tree, dig a hole that is twice the size of the tree's root ball. Make sure the hole is deep enough so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding ground. If you plant the tree too deep, the roots may not get enough oxygen and the tree may struggle to grow.

After you've planted the tree, water it thoroughly and apply a layer of mulch around the base. This will help the soil retain moisture and prevent weeds from growing. Make sure to keep the soil around the tree moist but not waterlogged, as too much water can be harmful to the tree.

Caring for Your Purple Leaf Plum Tree

Once your purple leaf plum tree is established, it will require regular care to keep it healthy and looking its best. Here are a few tips:

Water the tree regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.

Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Prune the tree in late winter or early spring to remove any damaged or diseased branches.

Apply a layer of mulch around the tree once a year to help retain moisture and keep weeds at bay.

If you follow these tips and plant your purple leaf plum tree at the right time and in the right location, it will bring years of beauty and enjoyment to your garden.