Plum Burbank

Description: Plum 'Burbank' is a deciduous fruit tree with an upright growth habit. It typically reaches a mature height of 15 to 25 feet (4.5 to 7.5 meters) and a spread of 10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 meters). The tree features dark green, ovate leaves that turn yellow in the fall before dropping. In early spring, it produces showy white flowers that are attractive to bees and other pollinators. The fruit ripens in mid to late summer, depending on the climate, and is round to oval in shape with a dark purple skin and yellow to red flesh. The flesh is sweet, juicy, and aromatic, making it ideal for fresh eating, baking, canning, and preserves.

Best Growing Zones: Plum 'Burbank' is well-suited to USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9. It thrives in regions with mild winters and warm summers. This variety requires a certain number of chilling hours (typically between 500 to 800 hours below 45°F or 7°C) during the winter dormancy period to ensure proper fruit set. It can tolerate a wide range of climatic conditions but prefers full sun for optimal growth and fruit production.

Soil Requirements: Plum 'Burbank' prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level. It can tolerate various soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soil, as long as it's not overly compacted or waterlogged. Amending the soil with organic matter such as compost or aged manure can improve soil fertility, drainage, and structure. Regular watering is essential, especially during the fruiting season, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Maintenance: Proper maintenance is essential for healthy growth and abundant fruit production. Prune the tree annually in late winter to early spring to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, as well as thinning out crowded growth to improve airflow and light penetration. Plum 'Burbank' may require thinning of fruit clusters to ensure larger and healthier fruit development. Fertilize the tree annually with a balanced fertilizer formulated for fruit trees, following the manufacturer's instructions.