When to prune plum trees in Zambia
Pruning in Zambia can be done just after the rains, before winter for the early fruiting varieties, and after winter for the later-bearing varieties. The fast-growing varieties may need additional pruning after fruit harvesting. Avoid pruning in the rainy season as the wound may attract fungal diseases and rot.
How to prune
Several ways to prune a plum tree exist, but some general rules apply to most varieties. Trim the long branches so that most branches are the same length. Keeping the branches the same length. Then, prune the branches growing towards the main stem instead of outwards. Also, low branches and those growing at acute angles should be removed. The former will hang from the ground and cause diseases during fruiting. The latter will break. Rub some Vaseline or wound gel on the cut surface to prevent infections, especially if the site is weeping.
Leave enough flower buds to produce fruit this year. The flower buds are little bumps ob the branches or stems of the plum tree.Trimming the trees early enough give room for the trees to produce more buds before flowering season.
What to do with Cut branches
The cut branches are a helpful resource. The leaves can be used to mulch the trees or for composting (if they are disease-free). The cut branches can be cut down into cuttings or scion wood for plant propagation. March to August is a good time for rooting cuttings.
Preparing Cuttings
Cut branches can be cut to the length of a standard pen or a 30 cm ruler for rooting purposes. Cutting for scion wood can be 10 cm or less. The likelihood of rooting cuttings depends on one’s skill level, the nature of the cuttings, the rooting medium and potting soil.
Pruned trees may not look as symmetrical until the third year of growth after several pruning and training. Do not worry if the tree looks slightly lopsided in the first two years.
Additional care tips
Look out for scale insects and fungal infestations this time of year. Put up fruit fly traps before the fruiting season to prevent rotting fruit.
