How to Prune Ornamental Plum Trees

Plum Blossoms

Ornamental plums are deciduous flowering plants that can be grown as small trees or large shrubs. These hardy plants come in enough varieties to suit any climate condition and can do wonderfully indoors. Some bear fruit that can be made into delicious jellies. Ornamental plums need very little pruning to survive. Any pruning that the gardener chooses to do will be strictly for aesthetics.

Things You'll Need

• Pruning shears
• Large vase or container

Instructions

1. Prune for long lasting bloom and an attractive shape. Keep an eye on the tree for signs that it is awakening from its winter slumber. Usually, buds will appear in late winter or early spring. Buds always come out before the leaves. Once the buds begin to show their color, or soon after they have opened, is the best time to prune.

2. Cut back to a side branch, not all the way to the trunk. The idea is just to shape and thin the branches of the tree, not to strip it. Never take more than one third of the tree at any one pruning. Cut all the way to the branch. Take care not to leave nubs behind. Besides being unsightly, you may cause damage to the tree.

3. Prune only once per year. Excessive pruning will harm the tree, perhaps fatally. Once you have cut out the desired branches, don't throw them away. You can still enjoy them off the tree as you would cut flowers. Simply place them into a deep vase or other container. Strip any buds that will fall below water level.

Tips & Warnings

• Plant Ornametal Plums in well drained soil and give them full sun.