Missed best time to prune plum tree - Ask Extension
Hello!
I am in SE Portland, Multnomah County. I have an Italian plum tree I planted from a pit about 15 years ago. I have been pruning it as advised...
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Missed best time to prune plum tree #922488
Asked November 28, 2025, 10:44 PM EST
Hello!
I am in SE Portland, Multnomah County. I have an Italian plum tree I planted from a pit about 15 years ago. I have been pruning it as advised, but I accidentally missed pruning it this summer and I wonder when I should prune it now. I understand it shouldn't be pruned during the rainy season, so should I wait till late summer again?
Thank you much for your advice. I learn SO much from you all, THANK YOU!!!
Louise
Multnomah CountyOregon
Expert Response
Hi Louise and thanks for your question about pruning your plum tree. According to "Pruning Made Easy" by Lewis Hill, you can actually skip the pruning this year, as most American and European plums need only moderate pruning to keep bearing well. Then you can carry on with your regular schedule next summer if this is working well for the tree.