When it comes to the pollination of Satsuma plums, it is important to note that they are partially self-fertile. This means that they have the ability to produce fruit on their own, without the need for a separate pollinator. However, having a pollinator nearby can greatly increase the fruit set and yield of the Satsuma plum tree.
In order to ensure optimal pollination and maximize fruit production, it is recommended to plant another Japanese plum variety nearby that can serve as a pollinator for the Satsuma plum. Japanese plums are known for their ability to cross-pollinate with each other, resulting in better fruit set and larger harvests.
When selecting a pollinator for Satsuma plum, it is important to choose a variety that blooms at the same time or overlaps in bloom period. This will ensure that the bees and other pollinators have access to both the Satsuma plum flowers and the pollinator’s flowers simultaneously.
Some popular Japanese plum varieties that can serve as pollinators for Satsuma plums include:
1. Methley: This variety is an early bloomer, making it a good choice to pair with the Satsuma plum, which also tends to bloom early in the season. Methley plums have reddish-purple skin and sweet, juicy flesh.
2. Santa Rosa: Another early bloomer, Santa Rosa plums have a reddish-purple skin and sweet, tart flesh. This variety is widely grown and is known for its excellent flavor.
3. Shiro: This variety blooms in mid-season and has a yellow skin with sweet, mild-flavored flesh. It can be a good choice as a pollinator for Satsuma plums that bloom around the same time.
4. Beauty: Beauty plum trees bloom in mid-season and have a deep red skin with sweet, juicy flesh. This variety can also be a suitable pollinator for Satsuma plums.
It is important to keep in mind that the availability of these specific varieties may vary depending on your location and local nurseries. It is always a good idea to consult with a local gardening expert or nursery to determine the best pollinator options for your specific region and climate.
In my personal experience, I have grown a Satsuma plum tree in my backyard and initially did not have a pollinator nearby. While the tree did produce some fruit on its own, the yield was significantly increased when I planted a Methley plum tree nearby as a pollinator. The two trees bloomed at the same time, and I noticed a marked improvement in the fruit set and overall harvest of the Satsuma plum tree.
To summarize, while Satsuma plums are partially self-fertile and can produce fruit on their own, planting a compatible Japanese plum variety nearby as a pollinator can greatly enhance fruit set and yield. Choosing a pollinator that blooms at the same time or overlaps in bloom period is important for successful cross-pollination. Popular pollinator choices include Methley, Santa Rosa, Shiro, and Beauty plums. Consulting with local experts or nurseries can help determine the best pollinator options for your specific region.
