Cherry plums are a distinct and early-fruiting stone fruit, offering a unique blend of sweet and tart flavors. These small, round fruits come in various colors, including shades of red, purple, and yellow. Understanding their season is important for gardeners and fruit enthusiasts to enjoy their brief season.
Understanding Cherry Plum Season
Cherry plum season begins in late spring and extends into early summer, unlike most plums that ripen later. This harvest window can begin as early as June in some regions and continue through August, depending on various factors.
Timing is influenced by geographical location. Warmer, southern regions experience an earlier harvest, while cooler, northern climates will see their fruits ripen later. Local climate conditions also play a role; for example, a particularly warm spring can accelerate fruit development, leading to an earlier harvest. Conversely, a colder spring might delay the ripening process.
Different cherry plum varieties can have staggered ripening times, adding to seasonal variability. For instance, some cultivars may ripen in June, while others might not be ready until September. The “season” refers to the period when the fruit is mature enough for harvest, lasting about two weeks for a single tree.
Identifying Ripe Cherry Plums
Determining when a cherry plum is ripe involves observing several sensory cues. Visually, ripe cherry plums develop full color, transitioning from green to their mature shades of red, purple, or yellow, depending on the variety. Some varieties may even display a mix of colors.
When gently squeezed, a ripe cherry plum should exhibit a slight give, indicating tender flesh, but not mushy or overly soft. An aromatic, sweet, and fruity smell is another reliable indicator of ripeness. While tasting a fruit is the best way to assess ripeness, a ripe cherry plum will offer a balanced sweet and tart flavor profile.
Making the Most of Cherry Plums
Once harvested, cherry plums offer versatility for culinary use. They are excellent for fresh eating, providing a delightful sweet-tart experience. Their unique flavor also makes them suitable for various cooked applications, including jams, jellies, and preserves, due to their pectin content.
Cherry plums can also be baked into pies, tarts, muffins, or crisps, or simmered into sauces and chutneys that complement roasted meats and other savory dishes. For short-term storage, unwashed cherry plums can be kept at room temperature for a few days until soft. To extend their freshness, ripe fruits can be refrigerated in the crisper drawer for three to five days.