Prunus domestica ‘Opal’, Early-ripening plum tree, Height 70 cm, 5-litre pot

Prunus domestica ‘Opal’ is an early-ripening plum tree with sweet, juicy fruit. The reddish-purple skin encloses yellow flesh with a pleasant flavour. In spring, the white blossom adds ornamental value, after which the plums ripen in summer. A lovely fruit tree for a sunny garden.

Why choose ‘Opal’?

• Early harvest, usually from late July to early August.
• Sweet, juicy plums with yellow flesh.
• Self-fertile: a single tree is capable of bearing fruit.
• White spring blossoms and fruit from our own garden.

Contents of this product

• 1 x Prunus domestica ‘Opal’
• Pot size: 5 litres
• Height on delivery: approximately 70 cm including the pot (approximate)

Plants are natural products. Height, branching and the number of leaves may vary from plant to plant and from season to season. We cannot guarantee that the plant will be in flower or bearing fruit upon delivery.

Pollination, growth and harvest

‘Opal’ does not require a second plum variety for fruit set. Pollinating insects remain important, and favourable flowering conditions help the harvest. Harvest when the plums have developed a good colour and yield slightly to light pressure. Ripening times may vary depending on the weather. The final size of the tree depends largely on the rootstock, location and pruning; expect a tree of several metres in height and allow the crown sufficient space.

Location and planting

Choose a sunny, sheltered spot with nutrient-rich, well-drained soil. Sunlight helps the fruit to ripen and improves the flavour. Moisten the root ball thoroughly before planting and plant it at the same depth as in the nursery pot. Keep the graft union above ground level. Water generously and, if necessary, support a young tree with a stake.

Water, nutrition and fruit thinning

Water during the first growing season and during prolonged periods of drought. Ensure that the roots do not stand in stagnant water. A layer of compost and suitable fruit fertiliser in the spring will support growth. If the tree bears an exceptionally heavy crop, thin out some of the young plums. This gives the remaining fruit space and reduces the risk of branches breaking due to excessive weight.

Pruning and winter

Prune plums during dry weather in the growing season, for example after the harvest, and avoid pruning in winter. Remove dead, damaged and crossing branches and keep the crown open. The tree is hardy and deciduous, but the blossom remains susceptible to late night frosts. When grown in pots, take particular care to protect the root ball from prolonged severe frost and drying out.

Uses and pot cultivation

The plums are delicious eaten fresh and are ideal for jam, compote or baking. For long-term pot cultivation, use a spacious pot and pay extra attention to watering and feeding. When planted in the ground, the tree has more room for its roots and water management is generally easier to control. Young trees do not automatically produce a large harvest straight away.