How to Start a Plum Tree From a Seed

Overview

A plum tree in the home landscape is a source of delight for the family. The supply of fresh, juicy fruit eaten right off the tree and the jams, sauces and puddings made from plums are some of the reasons gardeners choose to grow them. Growing a plum tree from seed won't give you the same type of plum from which you took the seed. It might be sweeter or more tart, larger or smaller. It will take your plum tree, grown from seed, at least three years to begin bearing fruit.

Step 1

Run the seed under tap water and use a soft brush to scrub pulp away from the seed. Allow the seed to air-dry and store it in a glass jar until mid-January.

Step 2

Dampen a handful of peat moss and push the seed into it. Place it in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for 90 days.

Step 3

Dig and turn the soil with a garden trowel to prepare the planting area, crushing any large clumps of dirt.

Step 4

Add a 3-inch layer of compost to the soil and, using a gardening fork, mix it to a depth of 6 inches.

Step 5

Plant the plum seed 2 inches into the prepared soil and cover with soil. Keep the area moist, but not wet.

Step 6

Dig a 2-inch-deep trench alongside the plum seedling (3 inches away) when it reaches 8 inches tall. Place 1 tbsp. of urea into the trench, cover it and water the area to a depth of 4 inches. Water again every 10 days.