Plum trees are a joy to grow—bursting into fragrant spring blossoms and producing juicy fruit in shades from golden yellow to deep purple. But if you’ve just planted one, summer can be a high-stakes season. Young plum trees are still adjusting to their new environment, and heat, dryness, or pests can slow their progress.
Here are five important steps to help your plum tree thrive during its first summer in the ground.
1. 💧 Prioritize Deep Watering Over Frequent Sips
Plums need moisture to establish strong roots, but they don’t want soggy feet:
- Water 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain and soil type
- Use a slow trickle so the water penetrates at least 8 inches into the soil
- Avoid daily light watering—it encourages shallow, weak roots
💡 At planting, consider adding Soil Moist Transplant Crystals to help retain water during dry spells.
2. 🍂 Mulch to Keep the Soil Cool and Weed-Free
Mulch is your tree’s first defense against heat and moisture loss:
- Spread 2–3 inches of mulch (bark, straw, or pine needles) around the base
- Keep it a few inches from the trunk for airflow
- Mulch also prevents weeds from competing for nutrients and water
🌱 Refresh the layer mid-season for continued protection.
3. ☀️ Protect From Extreme Afternoon Heat
Mature plums can handle sun all day, but young trees can overheat:
- Provide shade cloth or plant near something that offers afternoon relief
- Watch for leaf scorch or drooping—signs your tree may be under stress
- Potted plums can be moved to partial shade on very hot days
🛡️ A little protection in year one helps the tree adjust for long-term success.
4. 🐛 Keep Pests and Disease in Check
Plums are prone to certain pests, especially when young:
- Inspect weekly for aphids, caterpillars, or fungal spots
- Remove damaged foliage and prune lightly to improve airflow
- Treat organically only if pest pressure becomes significant
🔍 Prevention is easier than recovery when it comes to pest issues.
5. 🚫 Skip Fertilizer in the Peak of Summer
Too much fertilizer can do more harm than good during hot months:
- Hold off on feeding until fall or early spring
- Excess nitrogen now can encourage soft, vulnerable growth
- Focus instead on consistent watering and protection from stress
🌿 Strength before speed is the key to healthy growth.
🛒 Where to Buy Bare Root Plum Trees
For a healthy start and reliable results, choose Ty Ty Plant Nursery, LLC:
✅ Best prices on premium bare root plum trees
✅ Fast shipping so your trees arrive fresh and ready to thrive
✅ Non-GMO, climate-suited varieties
✅ Free 1-Year Plantsurance™ Guarantee – store credit if your plant doesn’t survive 🛡️
At Ty Ty, it’s always zero stress, all success.
🌟 Final Takeaway
A newly planted plum tree’s first summer sets the stage for years of growth and fruiting. With deep watering, mulch, heat protection, pest monitoring, and patience, you’ll give your tree the best chance to flourish.
Order your bare root plum trees from Ty Ty Plant Nursery, LLC today and plant with confidence.


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