Pruning plum trees - Ask Extension
I missed my plan to prune our plum tree in March and now that the plum are full size the branches are sagging terribly. Should I prune it now or just...
Knowledgebase
Pruning plum trees #879504
Asked July 30, 2024, 9:02 PM EDT
I missed my plan to prune our plum tree in March and now that the plum are full size the branches are sagging terribly. Should I prune it now or just wait until next March?
Ramsey County Minnesota
Expert Response
Pruning is best done in later winter (February/early March) to support the tree health. If you have branches, such as those in the photo, you can temporarily prop them up with 2 x 4 wood or ladders. If there is no way to prop up and the branch appears at risk for breakage you could choose to prune as a last resort. The link below gives information on caring for plums, including pruning methods.
https://extension.umn.edu/fruit/growing-stone-fruits-home-garden
https://extension.umn.edu/fruit/growing-stone-fruits-home-garden