It is entirely possible to grow a plum tree from the seed contained within the pit, though the process is a long-term commitment requiring horticultural steps. The journey involves mimicking the natural cycle the seed would undergo in the wild to ensure successful germination. This method differs greatly from purchasing a young tree from a nursery. Sprouting the seed is the first step in a multi-year project that will eventually result in a unique, fruit-bearing tree.
Understanding Seedling Variability
The plum tree grown from a seed is unlikely to produce fruit identical to its parent, a concept known as not growing “true to type.” Plum seeds result from sexual reproduction, mixing genetic material from the parent tree and the pollen donor. This genetic recombination creates a unique hybrid, and the resulting fruit may be smaller, larger, or less palatable than the original plum.
Commercial orchards rely on grafting to ensure genetic consistency. Grafting involves fusing a desirable fruit-producing branch (scion) onto a robust root system (rootstock). This technique guarantees the new tree will yield the exact same fruit variety as the scion parent. Growing from a seed introduces an element of chance, where the fruit qualities are unknown until the tree reaches maturity and begins to bear. The unpredictable nature of the seed-grown tree is part of the appeal for some enthusiasts, as it offers the possibility of developing a completely new, naturally adapted variety.
Preparing the Plum Seed for Germination
Successful plum seed germination depends on replicating the cold, moist conditions of winter, a process called stratification. First, thoroughly clean the plum pit to remove all traces of fruit pulp, which can harbor mold or fungus that will kill the seed. You can choose to plant the whole pit, or for a faster and more reliable germination rate, carefully crack the hard outer shell to extract the almond-shaped seed inside. Extracting the seed is a form of scarification, which bypasses the slow degradation of the hard shell.
The cleaned seed must undergo cold, moist stratification for about 90 to 120 days. This is typically done by placing the seeds in a sealed plastic bag with a damp medium, such as peat moss, vermiculite, or a moist paper towel. Store the bag in a refrigerator at a consistent temperature between 34 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit (1 to 5 degrees Celsius) to simulate the required chilling period. Checking the medium periodically to ensure it remains moist but not saturated is important, and you should watch for signs of sprouting or mold growth during this time.
Planting and Initial Care
After stratification, or once a small root (radicle) begins to emerge, the plum seed is ready for planting, ideally in early spring. Plant the seed about one inch deep in a small pot filled with a well-draining seed-starting mix, ensuring the developing root points downward. Using a container allows for better control over the environment and protection for the young seedling. Keep the soil consistently moist, but never waterlogged, to prevent the delicate new roots from rotting.
The young plum seedling requires a location that receives at least six hours of bright, direct sunlight daily to support photosynthesis and strong growth. While the seed-starting mix provides little nutrition, it is generally recommended to avoid fertilizing the tree during its first year of growth. Once the seedling reaches 12 to 18 inches tall and the danger of frost has passed, transplant it into a larger pot or a permanent location. The chosen outdoor site should have loamy, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH and be protected from harsh winds.
Time to Maturity
The most significant difference between a seed-grown plum tree and one purchased from a nursery is the time required to produce fruit. Grafted nursery trees often bear fruit within two to four years because they are started with mature wood. A plum tree grown directly from a seed must first pass through a juvenile phase before it can begin flowering and fruiting.
This juvenile period typically lasts between five and ten years, requiring patience from the grower. While the exact time frame is variable and depending on local growing conditions, the tree focuses its energy on developing a strong root system and substantial trunk structure. The seed-grown tree will eventually reach its full, ungrafted size, which can be considerably larger than commercially grown counterparts.