Contents
Description
Prunus Salicina Methley is a fruit-bearing tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is also known as Methley Plum, and it is native to China, Japan, and Korea. The tree can grow up to 20 feet tall and can spread up to 15 feet wide. Methley Plum produces sweet and juicy red plums that are ready to harvest in mid-June. The fruit is perfect for making jams, jellies, and desserts.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Prunus |
Appearance
Prunus Salicina Methley has a round-shaped crown with a dense canopy. The bark is gray and smooth, and the leaves are deciduous, alternate, and elliptical. The leaves are 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide, with serrated edges. The flowers are pinkish-white and bloom in early spring before the leaves. The fruit is a round or oblong-shaped drupe that is 1-2 inches in diameter, with a smooth and shiny skin that is red or purple.
Care Guide
Prunus Salicina Methley requires regular watering, especially during the hot and dry season. It prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilize the tree in early spring before the new growth appears, using a balanced fertilizer. Methley Plum needs full sun exposure to thrive and produce fruit. It is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Prunus Salicina Methley is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including aphids, mites, scale insects, and plum curculio. The tree can also be affected by bacterial canker, brown rot, and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, prune the tree regularly to remove dead or diseased branches, and apply appropriate pesticides or fungicides as needed.
Habitat
Prunus Salicina Methley grows best in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It prefers full sun exposure and can tolerate partial shade. The tree is native to China, Japan, and Korea, but it is widely cultivated in North America, Europe, and other parts of the world.
Question and Answer
Q: When is the best time to harvest Methley Plum?
A: Methley Plum is ready to harvest in mid-June.
Q: How tall can Prunus Salicina Methley grow?
A: The tree can grow up to 20 feet tall.
Q: Does Methley Plum have any specific soil requirements?
A: Methley Plum prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Prunus Salicina Methley?
A: The tree can be affected by aphids, mites, scale insects, bacterial canker, brown rot, and powdery mildew.
Related Plants
- Prunus Americana
- Prunus Armeniaca
- Prunus Avium
- Prunus Cerasifera
- Prunus Domestica
- Prunus Dulcis
- Prunus Persica
- Prunus Serrulata
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/plum/growing-methley-plums.htm
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/prunus-salicina-methley
- https://www.britannica.com/plant/Methley-plum
- https://www.growjoy.com/store/pc/Methley-Plum-Tree-p875.htm
