When I first planted Besztercei plum (Prunus domestica ‘Besztercei’), I eagerly awaited the flowering. In spring, the trees were covered with beautiful white blossoms, and the garden was filled with the buzzing of bees. When the first fruit ripened, the flavour exceeded all my expectations, and ever since, I look forward to the harvest every year.
Varieties and Characteristics of Besztercei Plum (Prunus domestica ‘Besztercei’)
The Besztercei plum is a true horticultural treasure, loved by many for its rich flavour and versatility. The most common varieties include
Besztercei,
Hagymás, and
Szilvás.
- Besztercei: This variety is the most popular, producing sweet, juicy fruits. The fruits are dark blue in colour, with golden-yellow flesh. I recommend this variety if you want to make jam or bake cakes, as it’s the best choice for those purposes.
- Hagymás: The Hagymás plum stands out with its unique flavour profile. The fruits are smaller but very sweet, with softer flesh. In my opinion, this variety is excellent for drying.
- Szilvás: This variety is more suited for fresh consumption, as it has a crisp texture and sweet taste. The fruits are lighter in colour, and the flesh is also a paler shade.
Planting and Propagation
Planting Besztercei plum is straightforward, but there are a few important steps worth following. I recommend early spring or autumn as the best times for planting.
1. Site selection: Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Plum trees dislike waterlogged conditions.
2. Planting depth: Align the root ball with the soil surface and avoid planting too deep.
3. Nutrients: It’s a good idea to mix compost or organic manure into the planting hole to help the tree develop well.
The most common propagation methods are
grafting or using
suckers. I believe grafting is the best approach, as it ensures the desired variety’s characteristics.
Growth Habits
The Besztercei plum typically grows to a medium height, reaching 4–6 metres. Young trees tend to grow quickly, but growth slows as they mature. I recommend observing your tree, and if you notice the shoots branching out, it might be worth shaping it with pruning.
Pruning
Pruning is crucial for maintaining the health of the Besztercei plum. In my opinion, the best time to prune is during the winter months when the tree is dormant.
1. Shaping: It’s advisable to shape young trees to develop a nice, open crown. You can achieve this by cutting back the central shoots and leaving the outer ones.
2. Removing diseased branches: Always remove any diseased or damaged branches to prevent the spread of illness.
3. Regulating fruit quantity: If the tree produces too much fruit, it’s worth thinning some out so the remaining fruits grow larger and tastier.
What are your experiences with pruning plum trees?
From my experience, regular pruning works wonders and keeps the trees healthier.
Caring for and growing Besztercei plum can be a real joy if you give it attention and love. I suggest you give it a try and enjoy the taste of the fruit and the beauty of the tree!
Besztercei Plum and Diseases
The Besztercei plum is a wonderful fruit, not only delicious but also very popular in gardens. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to various
diseases and
pests. In my opinion, the most common problem is brown rot, which often appears after flowering. This fungus attacks the blossoms and fruit, and if not managed, can ruin the entire crop.
Among the
pests, aphids and caterpillars are the most widespread.
I recommend regularly checking the leaves, and if you spot pests, consider biological control methods such as neem oil or other natural remedies. Chemical treatments can also be effective, but I believe natural solutions are always preferable as they protect the environment.
Pest Control for Besztercei Plum
Protecting against pests not only safeguards the plant’s health but also the quality of the fruit. I think prevention is the best strategy. Regularly inspect your trees and keep their surroundings tidy. Removing fallen leaves and fruit helps reduce pest numbers.
If pests do appear, it’s worth combining
biological control with physical methods. For example, placing yellow sticky traps around the trees can help catch aphids. I recommend always maintaining natural balance and avoiding excessive use of chemicals.
Watering Besztercei Plum
Watering is vital for keeping the Besztercei plum healthy.
I believe the best approach is to water deeply but infrequently. The roots need water to reach them, so it’s best to water the tree to a depth of 30–40 cm. During summer, especially in dry spells, watering once a week may suffice.
Another important factor is soil condition. Overly wet soil can cause root rot, while soil that’s too dry can lead to fruit cracking. I think mulching helps retain soil moisture and reduces weed growth.
Experiences in Caring for Besztercei Plum
I’ve gained a lot of experience caring for Besztercei plum. I recommend always paying attention to the tree’s condition and not hesitating to intervene if something seems off. Ask yourself, “When was the last time I thoroughly checked my trees?” Regular inspections help detect problems early.
If possible, prune the tree in spring to encourage new shoot growth. I believe proper pruning not only improves the tree’s health but also the quality of the fruit.
The Besztercei plum is a wonderful fruit tree that can bring much joy if cared for properly.
In my opinion, the most important thing is to enjoy the process and learn from your plant!
Introduction to Besztercei Plum
The Besztercei plum is a true horticultural gem, popular not only in our country but also in neighbouring regions. This fruit is especially loved for its juicy flavour and versatility. The fruit is usually dark blue or purple, with a thin skin that makes it easy to eat. The flesh is juicy, sweet, and slightly tart, which makes it truly special.
In my opinion, the greatest advantage of the Besztercei plum is its versatility. It’s excellent fresh, as jam, in cakes, or even as a spirit. The yield varies year to year, but a well-maintained tree can produce 30–50 kg of fruit. However, quality always depends on proper care.
Yield and Quality of Besztercei Plum
The quantity and quality of the harvest are closely linked to the tree’s condition and environmental factors. The Besztercei plum generally yields abundantly, but the size and flavour of the fruit greatly depend on care.
I believe that proper watering and nutrient supply are key to a good-quality crop. It’s also worth monitoring soil pH, as plum trees prefer slightly acidic soil.
Fruit ripening begins in late August to early September, and at this time, the trees are often weighed down by the fruit.
I recommend harvesting when the fruit easily detaches from the tree, as this is when the flavour is at its best.
Flowering of Besztercei Plum
The Besztercei plum flowers in spring, usually from late April to early May. The flowers are white and fragrant, attracting not only bees but also beautifying your garden.
In my opinion, the flowering period is the most beautiful time in the life of plum trees, as they are full of life and colour.
During flowering, it’s important that the trees receive enough sunlight and water.
I believe that healthy trees produce abundant flowers, which in turn affects the quality of the later fruit. It’s worth keeping an eye on the trees and pruning as needed to encourage a good number of blossoms.
Tips for Caring for Besztercei Plum
If you want to grow Besztercei plum yourself,
I recommend starting with some research on the right varieties and care requirements. Plum trees not only provide fruit but can also be beautiful ornamental additions to your garden.
Remember that trees need enough space to grow, and maintaining proper spacing helps prevent diseases.
In my opinion, it’s best to leave at least 4–5 metres between trees to allow them to grow freely.
Besides this, it’s important to watch out for pests. Plum trees can be susceptible to various diseases, so regular checks and appropriate protection are essential. Ask your local garden centre about natural pest control methods.
Besztercei plum is not only a tasty fruit but also a wonderful gardening experience. Will you give it a go?
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