The Damson Plum tree is self-pollinating, which means that you do not need to plant more than one tree in order to have fruit. This is great news for gardeners who may have limited space or who simply prefer to have a single tree.
One of the advantages of having a self-pollinating tree is that you don’t have to worry about finding a suitable pollination partner. Some fruit trees, such as apples or cherries, require cross-pollination with another compatible variety in order to produce fruit. This can be a bit more complicated, as you need to ensure that you have the right combination of trees in your garden. With a self-pollinating tree like the Damson Plum, you can enjoy the convenience of having a single tree that will produce fruit on its own.
Another benefit of self-pollinating trees is that they tend to be more reliable in terms of fruit production. Since they don’t rely on another tree for pollination, they are not as susceptible to factors that can affect pollination, such as unfavorable weather conditions or a lack of pollinators in the area. This can be particularly important in regions where the climate is less predictable or where there may be fewer bees or other pollinating insects.
In terms of the specific requirements for the Damson Plum tree, it is important to note that it does have a chilling requirement of 800 hours. Chilling hours refer to the number of hours that a tree needs to be exposed to temperatures below a certain threshold in order to break dormancy and properly set fruit. In the case of the Damson Plum, it requires around 800 hours of temperatures between 32 and 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
This chilling requirement is important because it helps the tree to go through a period of rest and rejuvenation during the colder months. Without this period of dormancy, the tree may not be able to produce fruit or may produce less fruit than it is capable of. It is worth noting that the specific chilling requirements can vary depending on the variety of plum tree and the climate in which it is grown. Therefore, it is always a good idea to choose a tree that is well-suited to your specific region and climate.
In terms of its size, the Damson Plum tree can grow to a mature height of 18 to 20 feet. This is important to consider when choosing a location for planting, as you want to ensure that the tree has enough space to grow and that it won’t interfere with other structures or plants in your garden. It is also worth noting that regular pruning can help to control the size and shape of the tree, if desired.
The Damson Plum tree is indeed self-pollinating, making it a convenient choice for gardeners who want to enjoy fresh plums without the need for multiple trees. Its chilling requirement of 800 hours ensures that it goes through a necessary period of dormancy, and its size can be managed through pruning. it is a beautiful and productive addition to any garden in USDA Zones 5, 6, and 7.
