Harry Pickstone plum

Description

The Harry Pickstone plum is a popular cultivar known for its large size and sweet flavor. This variety features a smooth, reddish-purple skin and golden-yellow flesh that is both juicy and flavorful. Harry Pickstone plums are celebrated for their sweet taste, balanced with a slight tartness. Their juicy texture and aromatic profile make them ideal for fresh consumption as well as for cooking and preserving.

Ripening

Ripening Process

• Ripening begins with warm weather and adequate sunlight during the summer months. Harry Pickstone plums typically ripen from late summer to early fall, usually around August to September.

General Information

Climate

• Low chilling , suitable for warmer almost dub tropical climates. This cultivar thrives in temperate climates with plenty of sunshine and moderate rainfall. Requires chilling hours (around 300-600 hours below 45°F) during winter for optimal fruit set. Prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.

Uses

• Culinary: Ideal for fresh eating, baking, cooking, and making jams and jellies. The sweet flavor enhances a variety of dishes.
• Nutritional Value: Rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and dietary fiber, contributing to overall health and wellness.
• Cultural Significance: Plums are appreciated in many cultures for their delicious flavor and health benefits.

Care Tips

Watering

• Frequency: Water regularly, particularly during dry periods and while fruit is developing. Young trees require more frequent watering.
• Method: Drip irrigation is recommended to provide consistent moisture and reduce water waste.

Fertilizing

• Timing: Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring and again in late summer.
• Type: Use fertilizers that contain nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to support healthy growth and fruit development.
• Frequency: Adjust based on soil tests and tree growth stage.

Pruning

• Purpose: Pruning maintains tree shape, improves air circulation, and enhances fruit quality.
• Timing: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
• Technique: Remove dead or diseased branches and thin out crowded areas to encourage healthy growth.

Pest Control

• Common Pests: Monitor for pests such as aphids, plum curculio, and fruit flies.
• Prevention: Implement integrated pest management strategies, including regular inspections and the introduction of beneficial insects.
• Monitoring: Regularly check leaves and fruit for signs of pests or diseases.

Harvesting

• Timing: Harvest when the skin is fully colored and fruits yield slightly to pressure, usually in late summer to early fall.
• Method: Hand-pick the plums carefully to avoid bruising; use pruning shears if necessary.
• Storage: Store harvested plums in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.