What are the Best Plum Trees to Plant in Napa?

Napa is known for its stunning vineyards and wineries, but did you know that it is also a great place to grow plum trees? With the right soil, climate, and care, you can enjoy delicious and juicy plums straight from your backyard. But with so many varieties available, how do you choose the best plum trees to plant in Napa? In this article, we'll explore some of the top choices for plum trees that thrive in Napa's Mediterranean climate and fertile soil.

Satsuma Plum

First on our list is the Satsuma plum. This Japanese plum variety is known for its extremely sweet and juicy flesh and dark burgundy skin. Satsumas are also resistant to diseases and pests, making them a low-maintenance choice for home gardeners. They have a short growing season and can be harvested in late May to early June, which is perfect for Napa's warm and mild climate. Satsumas are also self-pollinating, so you only need to plant one tree to enjoy a bountiful harvest.

Santa Rosa Plum

The Santa Rosa plum is another popular choice for Napa gardeners. It has a juicy, red flesh and a tart flavor that makes it perfect for jams, jellies, and desserts. Santa Rosa trees produce large crops of plums that ripen in mid to late summer, usually around August. They are also self-fertile, but planting another variety of plum tree nearby can help increase the yield. Santa Rosas are relatively low-maintenance and can withstand Napa's hot summers and dry soil.

Beauty Plum

If you're looking for a unique and beautiful variety of plum, the Beauty plum is worth considering. These plums have a bright red skin and a juicy, yellow flesh that is packed with flavor. Beauty plums are great for eating fresh or in traditional Chinese dishes such as plum sauce or pickled plums. They ripen in mid-summer and require full sun and moderate watering to thrive. Beauty plums are also self-fertile, but planting another plum tree nearby can improve the yield and quality of the fruit.

Methley Plum

The Methley plum is a popular choice for those who want a reliable and productive tree. This Japanese plum variety has a sweet and juicy flesh and a dark, purple skin. Methleys can be harvested in mid to late summer, usually around July, and are great for eating fresh, baking, or canning. They are self-fertile but planting another variety of plum tree nearby can increase the yield. Methleys are also disease-resistant and can tolerate Napa's dry soil and hot summers with ease.

Burgundy Plum

The Burgundy plum is a beautiful and delicious variety that is perfect for Napa's warm climate. These plums have a deep red skin and juicy, sweet flesh that is great for eating fresh or in desserts. Burgundy plums ripen in mid to late summer and require full sun and regular watering to thrive. They are also self-fertile and can produce a large crop with just one tree. The Burgundy plum is also resistant to diseases and pests, making it a great all-around choice for home gardeners.

In Conclusion

When it comes to choosing plum trees for your Napa garden, there are plenty of great options available. Whether you prefer sweet and juicy Satsumas or tart and flavorful Santa Rosas, there is a variety that will thrive in Napa's warm and fertile soil. Consider factors such as ripening time, size, and disease resistance when choosing a variety, and make sure to provide your plum trees with plenty of sunlight, water, and care to ensure a bountiful harvest.