When to Prune Plum?

The best season to prune a plum tree is mid summer during full growth. The exact time for pruning is variable but a good rule of thumb is to prune a plum tree in June or July. It can seem wrong to prune off branches and shoots with fruit on them, but resist the urge to leave the tree unpruned.

What is the best time to prune plum trees?

When to prune plums

Avoid pruning plums in winter, as it increases the risk of infection by silver leaf disease to which plums and other Prunus species are prone. The best time for pruning is usually spring for young trees and mid-summer for established ones.

What month do you prune?

Pruning to remove damaged, dead or diseased parts can be done at any time of the year. Most trees and shrubs, especially those that flower on current season's new growth should be pruned in late winter or early spring before the onset of new growth. (March-April).

James H. Sterling

James H. Sterling

Environmental Science & Climate Journalist

James Sterling reports on renewable energy developments, climate policy, ecological conservation, and green tech innovations around the globe.