How to Harvest Plums: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
If you’re lucky enough to have a plum tree in your garden, you’ll want to make sure you harvest the delicious fruits at the right time. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about harvesting plums, from how to tell when they’re ripe to how to store them properly.
When to Harvest Plums
The best way to tell when plums are ripe is to check their firmness and flavor. Ripe plums will be soft to the touch and have a sweet, juicy taste. You can also look at the color of the plums. As they ripen, plums will develop their characteristic color. However, different varieties of plums have different colors when they’re ripe, so it’s important to be familiar with the variety you’re growing.
How to Pick Plums
Once you’ve determined that your plums are ripe, it’s time to pick them. To pick a plum, simply grasp the fruit and gently twist it from the stem. Be careful not to pull the plum, as this can damage the fruit and the tree.
Different Types of Plums
There are two main types of plums: Japanese and European. Japanese plums are typically harvested a few days before they are fully ripe and then allowed to ripen indoors. European plums are ready for harvest just as the fruit begins to soften and the skin color changes to a background hue of yellow.
Harvesting for Different Purposes
If you’re planning on making prunes, you’ll want to allow the plums to ripen completely on the tree until they naturally fall. Then, gather them up and allow them to dry naturally in the sun or in a dehydrator.
Storing Plums
To store plums for long-term storage, keep them at a temperature between 31-32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius). They will keep for about two weeks.
Tips for Harvesting and Storing Plums
- If you’re not sure if a plum is ripe, it’s better to wait a few days. Unripe plums will not ripen properly once they’re picked.
- Handle plums with care when picking and storing them. Bruised plums will spoil more quickly.
- Store plums in a cool, dark place. Plums that are stored in warm or humid conditions will spoil more quickly.
- If you’re storing plums for long-term storage, check them regularly for signs of spoilage. Discard any plums that are moldy or have soft spots.
Conclusion
Harvesting plums is a simple process, but it’s important to do it correctly to ensure that you get the best possible fruit. By following the tips in this guide, you can harvest and store plums like a pro.