dwarf plum
Prunus 'Redheart'
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Grafting Propagation,Layering Propagation,Cutting,Air Layering Propagation,Tissue Culture
Hardiness Zone:
5 - 9
Flowers:
White Flowers In Spring
Sun:
Full sun
Fruits:
red Fruits Ready In Fall
Edible:
Yes
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
red,purple
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
High
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
For best results, Dwarf Plum (Prunus 'Redheart') should be watered once or twice a week. Make sure the top 2 or 3 inches of soil are completely dried out before you water again. During the warmer months, when the plant is actively growing, aim to give it slightly more water in order to keep the soil moist. During colder months it is best to give it less water to avoid over watering the roots, which can cut off air and result in root rot.
sunlight
Dwarf plum (Prunus 'Redheart') plants need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day in order for its foliage to stay lush and healthy. This is best achieved by putting it in an area that receives full sunlight, such as a south-facing or west-facing window, or a spot in the garden that will receive more direct sunlight than the surrounding areas. Take into account any natural shade from trees or buildings. During the summer peak growing season, you may want to increase the amount of sun exposure for this plant, as long as it is not too hot or especially intense. When temperatures rise too high, it's best to move this plant to a more shaded or partially shaded location so that it does not become stressed.
pruning
Dwarf plum trees (Prunus 'Redheart') should be pruned once a year, preferably in late winter or early spring before the plants take on new growth. To achieve the natural growth pattern of this species of plant, prune the top of the tree to maintain a lower-branching rounded crown form. Remove any dead, diseased or overcrowded branches, and remove branches that cross each other. Additionally, any shoots growing from below the graft union should be pruned off. When cutting back overgrown branches, cut just above the bud at a 45-degree angle to encourage outward and upward growth. Do not prune more than 25% of the foliage at 1 time. Finally, use sharp, disinfected pruning tools to prevent the spread of disease.