While the term “prunes” can refer to any dried plum, the prune tree produces a unique fruit that is actually quite different from a plum. Prune fruits are oblong, while plums are round.
Prunes are sweeter than plums, but not quite as juicy; they have a denser, drier flesh. The delicious purple-skinned fruit can be eaten fresh, dried or canned and are high in fibre, energy, and various vitamins and minerals that contribute to good digestion and healthy cells.
Prune trees are self-fertile and winter-hardy. They produce abundantly, which makes them easy and rewarding to grow in your garden.
Position – Your prune tree will flourish in a spot that gets full sun and is sheltered from strong wind. It is tolerant of some frost, but will suffer in extreme conditions.
Size – Prune trees can grow to a height of about 5 metres.
Soil Type – These trees prefer well-draining soil with a pH that ranges from 5.5 to 6.5. The average garden soil is around 6.5 to 7. Add a bag of acid compost to the hole to bring the pH down for optimal conditions. Dig a nice deep hole of 0.5 to 1 metre and place some bone meal at the bottom. Then, plant your prune tree and water it well.