Knowing exactly when to pick plums off tree is the secret to enjoying their best flavor. Get it right, and you’re rewarded with juicy, sweet fruit; pick too early, and they’re tart and hard. This guide will walk you through the simple signs of perfect ripeness so you can harvest your plums at their peak.
Unlike some fruits, plums do not improve much after they are picked. They may soften, but their sugar content is set at harvest. That’s why learning to judge ripeness on the branch is such a valuable skill for any gardener.
When To Pick Plums Off Tree
This is the core question. Ripeness is a combination of factors, not just one single test. You need to use your eyes, hands, and even your nose. Here are the primary indicators that your plums are ready.
Color is Your First Clue
Look beyond the basic fruit color. A ripe plum often develops a deeper, richer hue and loses any greenish undertones. Many varieties will also show a dusty, whitish “bloom” on their skin, which is a natural yeast and a sign of maturity.
- Check the ground color: Gently turn the plum over. The area that was shaded from the sun, called the ground color, should have changed from green to a yellow or cream shade.
- Look for full color: Red or purple varieties will become a deep, uniform color. Even yellow plums deepen to a rich gold.
- Don’t rely soley on sun-side color: The side facing the sun often colors up first, so always check the shaded side.
The Gentle Squeeze Test
A ripe plum will yield slightly to gentle pressure. Think of the feel of a ripe avocado or peach. It should be firm but not hard, and definitely not mushy.
- Use the palm of your hand, not your fingertips, to avoid bruising.
- If it feels rock hard, it needs more time.
- If it feels super soft or the skin is wrinkling, it’s overripe (but may still be good for jam).
Taste and Aroma
This is the most reliable test. A ripe plum will detach from the tree with just a gentle twist and lift. If you have to tug, it’s not ready. Once you’ve picked a test fruit, smell and taste it.
- Smell: A ripe plum often has a fragrant, sweet aroma at the stem end.
- Taste: The flavor should be sweet and juicy with maybe a hint of tartness, depending on the variety. If it’s starchy or sour, give the rest more time.
Timing and Seasonal Cues
Most plum varieties ripen from midsummer to early fall. Your location and the weather each year will effect the exact timing. Keep an eye on your calendar from the time the flowers fade.
- Early varieties may be ready in late July.
- Mid-season types ripen in August.
- Late-season plums can extend into September.
- Birds starting to show interest is a natures cue to check for ripeness!
How to Harvest Plums Correctly
Picking them the right way prevents damage to both the fruit and the tree. Damaged fruit won’t store well and can invite pests and disease.
- Be gentle: Handle each plum like an egg. Place them gently into your harvesting container, don’t drop them.
- Use the right motion: Cup the plum in your hand, twist it gently upwards, and pull. If it’s ripe, the stem should separate easily from the branch.
- Keep the stem on: If possible, leave the stem attached to the fruit. This helps prevent rotting at the top where the stem was attached.
- Use a shallow container: A wide basket or tray prevents plums at the bottom from being crushed by the weight of those on top.
Dealing with Stubborn Stems
Sometimes the stem stays on the tree. This is fine, but check the plum’s “belly button” (the stem end) for any cracks or breaks in the skin, as this can be an entry point for rot. Use these stemless fruits first.
What to Do After Picking
Post-harvest handling is crucial for extending your enjoyment. Most plums are best eaten within a few days, but proper storage can help.
- For immediate use: Let them sit at room temperature for a day to fully soften and sweeten, then enjoy.
- For short-term storage: Place fully ripe plums in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer. They’ll keep for about 3-5 days.
- For longer storage: If you have slightly underripe plums, you can store them in a cool, dark place for a week or so to extend your harvest season. Check them regularly.
- Preservation: Plums freeze well for cooking. Simply wash, cut in half, remove the pit, and freeze on a tray before bagging. They also make excellent jam, sauce, or dried fruit.
Troubleshooting Common Harvest Issues
Even experienced gardeners face challenges. Here’s how to handle common problems.
Plums Falling Off Tree Early
This is often a natural thinning process called “June drop,” though it can happen later. The tree sheds some fruit to ensure the remaining ones have enough resources. If excessive fruit drop occurs, it could be due to underwatering, nutrient deficiency, or pest issues.
Fruit Splitting or Cracking
This usually happens after a heavy rain following a dry period. The tree takes up water to fast, causing the fruit to expand and split. Consistent watering during dry spells is the best prevention. Split fruit should be picked and used immediately, as it won’t store and attracts insects.
Bird and Pest Damage
Birds, squirrels, and wasps love ripe plums. If they’re beating you to the harvest, try these tactics:
- Use bird netting over the tree, secured at the trunk.
- Hang reflective tape or old CDs to scare birds.
- Harvest as soon as fruit is ripe to minimize losses.
FAQ: Your Plum Picking Questions Answered
Do plums ripen after picking?
They soften after picking, but their sweetness does not increase significantly. For the best flavor, they must ripen on the tree.
How can you tell if a plum is sweet?
Use the combination of color, softness, and aroma described above. The only sure way is to taste one. A sweet plum will have a rich fragrance and yield slightly to pressure.
What time of day is best for picking plums?
Pick in the cool of the morning when the fruit is firm. Avoid picking in the heat of the afternoon, as the fruit will be warmer and more susceptible to bruising.
Can you pick plums when they are green?
You can, but they will likely remain tart and may not soften properly. Some cooking varieties are used green, but for eating fresh, it’s best to wait for color change.
Why are my plums so sour?
They were probably picked to early. Another reason could be the specific variety; some plums are naturally more tart and are better for baking or preserves.
Mastering the art of picking plums at the perfect moment takes a little practice, but it’s worth the effort. By paying attention to the subtle signs—the shift in color, the slight give, the easy twist from the branch—you ensure every plum you harvest is at its flavorful best. Your tree’s bounty will reward your patience with incredible taste.