Even an inexperienced gardener can take care of cherry plum. This plant is undemanding and bears fruit abundantly. Most varieties are suitable for cold climates.
The size and flavor characteristics of the fruit of the plant may vary from cultivar to cultivar. The berries are large and medium in size. Their sweetness depends on the sugar content. The yellow skin is highly durable. Moreover, it is quite thin and does not affect the taste of the berries. The peel protects the crop from damage. This allows it to be transported over a considerable distance.
Cherry plum can vary in color, taste and size
When choosing a particular variety, it is important to take into account the ripening period of the berries. Cherry plum is yellow:
- Early ripe – berries ripen in early summer. This group includes the varieties “Gold of the Scythians”, “Traveler”, “Nesmeyana” and “Sigma”. They are not suitable for growing in cold climates. The buds form in early spring and can be damaged by frost. The conditions of the southern regions are best suited for planting.
- Mid-season – the first harvest ripens in July – August. This group includes varieties such as Peach, Chuk and Karminnaya Zhukova. They are ideal for planting in central Russia.
- Late – the fruits ripen not earlier than September. The late varieties include “Huck” and “Cleopatra”. They are highly resistant to frost and can grow in northern regions.
Cherry plum berries are saturated with vitamins, regardless of the variety. They are used in recipes or consumed fresh.
When choosing cherry plum, it is necessary to determine its winter hardiness, early maturity and the size of the tree. A plant planted in optimal conditions does not require much care. The following varieties are remarkable for their yellow berries:
- “Gold of the Scythians” – the tree is medium-sized. The berries have a pleasant sweet and sour taste. Their weight is about 15 g. The pulp has a fibrous structure.
- “Peach” – fruits contain a lot of sugar. Their sweet honey flavor is reminiscent of peaches. The pulp is firm and juicy. The mass of berries can reach 30 g.
- “Huck” – the main advantage of trees is self-fertility. They are able to form an ovary without the help of pollinators. Large berries have the shape of a flattened ball. They contain a lot of juice. The pulp is not too sweet with a pleasant sour aftertaste.
Self-fertile varieties of cherry plum need pollinators. It is recommended to grow Chinese plums next to them.
Cherry plum has many varieties. This allows it to be planted in any area.