The Brookred plum, scientifically known as Prunus salicina ‘Brookred’, is a delightful fruit tree known for its late-season harvest and medium-sized, freestone red plums with orange flesh. One of the important factors to consider when growing this plum variety is ensuring proper pollination to ensure a bountiful harvest.
Like most plum trees, the Brookred plum requires cross-pollination from another compatible plum tree in order to produce fruit. The Brookred plum falls under the Japanese plum group, and it is recommended to choose pollinators from the same group for optimal results. In the case of the Brookred plum, there are several suitable pollinators to consider.
1. Opata Plum: This plum variety is known for its early-season harvest and is an excellent choice for cross-pollinating with the Brookred plum. It has a similar blooming time, making it a compatible pollinator.
2. Pembina Plum: Another suitable pollinator for the Brookred plum is the Pembina Plum. It is a late-season plum variety with a sweet flavor, and it blooms around the same time as the Brookred plum.
3. Western Sand Cherry: While not a plum variety, the Western Sand Cherry can also serve as a compatible pollinator for the Brookred plum. It is a native shrub that produces small, tart cherries and blooms at a similar time to the Brookred plum.
When selecting a compatible pollinator for the Brookred plum, it is important to consider factors such as blooming time, proximity to the plum tree, and compatibility of the fruiting groups. By choosing a suitable pollinator, you can ensure successful cross-pollination and increase the chances of a fruitful harvest.
In my personal experience as a gardener, I have found that having a diverse range of pollinators in the vicinity of fruit trees can greatly enhance the overall pollination process. This can include planting a variety of flowering plants that attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, to the garden. Additionally, providing a suitable habitat for these pollinators, such as nesting sites and a pesticide-free environment, can further encourage their presence and aid in successful pollination.
In conclusion, to ensure proper pollination for the Brookred plum tree, it is recommended to choose compatible pollinators from the same fruiting group, such as Opata Plum, Pembina Plum, or Western Sand Cherry. By selecting suitable pollinators and creating a pollinator-friendly environment, you can increase the chances of a successful harvest of delicious Brookred plums.
