Plant Description
Prunus ×domestica L. var. insititia (L.) Boivin (pro nm.) is a deciduous fruit tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. This plant is a complex hybrid of several species of Prunus, including P. spinosa, P. cerasifera, and P. domestica. It typically grows up to 6 meters in height and has an erect and branching stem with a smooth grey bark.
Origin and Common Names
Prunus ×domestica L. var. insititia (L.) Boivin (pro nm.) is native to southwest Asia and southeastern Europe. This plant is commonly known as damson plum or simply damson. The name "damson" comes from the old French word "damassin," which refers to the fruit's deep purple color.
Uses
The fruit of the damson plum is edible and is commonly used for making jams, jellies, and sauces. The fruit is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to any diet. The tree is also sometimes grown for its ornamental value, as it produces a profusion of white or pink flowers in early spring.
General Appearance
The leaves of the damson plum are oval-shaped and have a pointed tip. They are arranged alternately on the stem and are typically 5-10 cm long. The fruit of the damson plum is small and round, measuring about 4 cm in diameter. It has a deep purple color with a slightly tart taste. The tree blooms in early spring, producing clusters of white or pink flowers that are 2-3 cm in diameter.
Light Requirements
Prunus ×domestica L. var. insititia (L.) Boivin (pro nm.) grow best in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. It is important to note that insufficient light can result in poor fruit yield and reduced plant vigor.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for Prunus ×domestica L. var. insititia (L.) Boivin (pro nm.) growth is between 15°C and 25°C. The plant can, however, tolerate temperatures ranging from -12°C to 40°C, although mature plants are better suited to handle extreme temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Prunus ×domestica L. var. insititia (L.) Boivin (pro nm.) grow best in well-draining, loamy soils but can also tolerate clay soils. The soil pH should fall between 6.0 and 7.0. It is essential to avoid waterlogged or highly compacted soils as they stunt the plant's growth and reduce fruit yield significantly.
Cultivation Methods
Prunus ×domestica L. var. insititia (L.) Boivin, commonly known as damson plum, is a fruit-producing tree that is relatively easy to cultivate. It requires a fertile, well-drained soil that is free from stagnant water. The tree can grow up to a height of 15 feet and supports both full sun and partial shade.
Propagation can be done using seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a pot in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until germination. Cuttings should be taken in early spring and planted in a rooting hormone-treated soil mix. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged until roots have developed.
Watering Needs
Damson plum trees require regular watering during the growing season. The amount of water required will depend on the weather conditions and the soil type. In general, the tree should be watered deeply once a week. However, if the weather is hot and dry, then more frequent watering may be necessary.
It is important to avoid overwatering the tree as this can lead to root rot. Watering should be done in the early morning or late evening when the temperatures are cooler to minimize evaporation.
Fertilization
The tree should be fertilized annually in the spring before new growth appears. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium is recommended. A slow-release fertilizer can be added to the soil around the base of the tree or mixed into the planting hole.
It is important not to overfertilize the tree as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth and a reduction in fruit production. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for the appropriate amount to use.
Pruning
Damson plum trees should be pruned annually in the late winter or early spring while the tree is still dormant. Pruning is important to maintain shape, maximize fruit production, and ensure good air circulation through the tree canopy.
The main branches should be pruned to maintain an open center and remove any crossing, damaged, or diseased branches. The tree should also be thinned to remove any weak or unproductive branches. A clean, sharp pruning saw or shears should be used to make clean cuts at the collar of the branch.
Propagation of Prunus ×domestica L. var. insititia (L.) Boivin
Prunus ×domestica L. var. insititia (L.) Boivin is commonly known as the damson plum. This plant can be propagated using various methods, including seed propagation, cuttings, budding, and grafting.
Seed propagation
Propagation through seeds is an inexpensive method, but it takes a longer time to get a mature plant. The suitable time for sowing the seeds is during the fall season in well-drained soil. The seeds need stratification and should be kept out in the cold for a period of time to germinate.
Cuttings
Cuttings can be taken during the dormant stage in the winter or early spring. Hardwood cuttings of the parent tree can be taken, treated with rooting hormone, and planted in a well-drained medium. Semi-hardwood cuttings can be rooted in the summer after new growth has hardened.
Budding
Budding can be done in the summer with rootstock about the thickness of a pencil. T-shaped cuts are made, and a bud from the desired cultivar is inserted. The bud is held in place with tape and allowed to grow.
Grafting
Grafting can be done in the winter when the tree is dormant. Two or more plants can be grafted for faster fruit production, disease resistance, or a certain plant's ability to grow in specific soil conditions. T-shaped cuts are made, and the selected cultivar is inserted, held by tape, and allowed to grow.
Disease Management
Prunus ×domestica L. var. insititia (L.) Boivin (pro nm.) is susceptible to various diseases that can affect its growth and yield. Some common diseases that affect the plant include:
- Black knot: This disease is caused by a fungus (Apiosporina morbosa) and can lead to the formation of hard, black knots on the stems and branches. The best way to manage this disease is by pruning the infected parts as soon as they are noticed and disposing of the pruned materials.
- Plum pox virus: This virus can cause severe damage to the plant and can lead to stunted growth and reduced yield. The best way to manage this disease is to use virus-free planting material and to remove any infected plants.
- Shot hole: This disease is caused by a fungus (Wilsonomyces carpophilus) and is characterized by circular spots on leaves that fall out, leaving small holes. The best way to manage this disease is by regular pruning and proper sanitation practices.
To prevent the occurrence of these diseases, it is important to ensure that the plant is grown in well-drained soils with good aeration and to avoid over-fertilization. Additionally, proper sanitation practices like removing and disposing of infected plant material can go a long way in preventing the spread of diseases.
Pest Management
In addition to diseases, Prunus ×domestica L. var. insititia (L.) Boivin (pro nm.) is also susceptible to various pests that can cause damage to the plant. Some common pests that affect the plant include:
- Plum curculio: This pest is a type of weevil that can cause significant damage to the fruit. The best way to manage this pest is to use insecticides during the bud and petal stages of the plant growth.
- Eastern tent caterpillar: This pest can defoliate the plant and cause significant damage to the foliage. The best way to manage this pest is by pruning any egg masses that are found on the plant and by using insecticides when necessary.
- Aphids: These pests can cause stunted growth and reduced yield. The best way to manage these pests is by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
To prevent the occurrence of these pests, it is important to maintain good plant health by providing adequate water and nutrition. Additionally, regular scouting and early detection can help to minimize the damage caused by pests. If pest damage becomes severe, it may be necessary to use insecticides. However, it is important to follow the recommended application rates and use insecticides that are effective against the specific pests affecting the plant.
