What Does it Mean if a Plum Tree Has No Fruit?

Plum tree in bloom.

For a tree, fruit production is an act of reproduction. If a tree is stressed for any reason, it won't reproduce fruit.

Not Enough Water

Plum trees need to be watered deeply.

Plum trees need a lot of water during the growing season, especially when in bloom. The rule of thumb is water deeply, rather than frequently.

Lack of Pollination

Cross-pollination is vital to fruit production.

Most fruit trees need a similar fruit tree that is nearby for cross-pollination in order to bear fruit.

Too Much Pruning

Too extreme pruning stresses the tree.

Fruit grows on branches that are two to four years old. If you cut those branches back, your tree will not produce fruit until the next year. Also, extreme pruning may put your tree into survival mode. It will concentrate on growing new wood, not new fruit.

Improper Nutrients

Proper nutrition aids flower production.

In the early spring, a tree should be fertilized with bone meal around the tree's drip line but not near the trunk. Avoid fertilizing grass near your tree; the tree will become over-vigorous, growing new wood but not flowers.

Frost Damage

Frost damages flowers,

In every stage of development, the flowers are very sensitive to temperatures below freezing. The damage may not be visible. The flowers may continue to grow and bloom, but they won't develop into fruit.

References

• Phytosphere: How to water your tree
• Garden Action: Plum tree care