Plum it up!

I feel confident to speak on behalf of all fruit lovers to state that plum season is the most loved season right after mango season! During plum season, we visit neighbours, family and friends who have a much-loved plum tree, especially if it’s a Governor plum tree. These plums are a part of our childhood and Trinbagonian identity.

Spondias purpurea, often called Red Mombin, Jocote, or simply Spanish plum, is a small tropical fruit tree prized across the Caribbean and Latin America. Spondias purpurea is a deciduous tree that can reach 5 to 15 metres in height. It produces an abundance of small, oval to oblong fruits with smooth, thin skin ranging in colour from green to vibrant red or purple when ripe. We also have the regular version which turns yellow when ripe.

These plums aren’t just a treat, they’re rich in Vitamin C, dietary fibre, and antioxidants. It is traditionally used for boosting the immune system and aiding digestion. They are considered a cash crop because the demand always outweighs the supply for these treats.

In Trinidad and Tobago, these plums are not only eaten raw, but they are preserved, pickled and used for spice chows. If you have the backyard space, consider this your sign to start growing your own tree to reap the rewards in the future.

Propagating a plum tree is quite simple. Stem cutting is the most common and reliable method. Start by asking that neighbour/family/friend for a healthy, mature branch about 2–4 cm (1–1.5 inches) in diameter.

Cut sections 30–60 cm (12–24 inches) long and let the cuttings dry for 1–2 days in shade to reduce fungal infection. Plant the cuttings vertically in well-drained soil, burying half to two-thirds of their length. Water lightly and regularly and you will notice roots forming within 4 to 8 weeks.

Use a rooting hormone to improve success rates. Once the roots are fully formed, you can transplant either in a pot to further develop or straight into the ground, where both should have rich fertile soils.

Remember to plant during the rainy season or water well after planting and bury about half to two-thirds of the cutting length into the soil. You can also try to grow the tree from the seeds, but it is less commonly done due to longer harvest rates.

The plum tree usually starts to bear fruit in 2–3 years after planting and 3–6 years if grown by seed. Make sure the soil drains well and leave 3–4 metres (10–12 feet) of space around the tree so it can spread. Apply compost or well-rotted manure around the base once or twice a year (early rainy season and mid-year).

Optionally, use a balanced fertiliser (NPK 10-10-10) in moderation. Avoid heavy nitrogen, which can lead to leafy growth at the expense of fruiting. Be on the watch for scale insects (small bumps on stems). Treat with horticultural oil which can be purchased at an agri-stores.

To avoid fungal diseases, ensure good drainage and airflow. With minimal care and a bit of patience, it will thrive in your backyard and provide you with delicious, tangy plums year after year.

Send questions to: rayannaboodram@hotmail.com