Plum Green Gage

• Green Gage plums originated in France and were introduced to England in the 18th century, becoming a prized heritage variety among fruit enthusiasts worldwide.
• The fruit has distinctive green skin even when fully ripe, with golden, incredibly sweet flesh that's perfect for fresh eating or making preserves.
• This medium-sized deciduous tree produces white spring blossoms that attract beneficial pollinators before developing into clusters of round, greenish-yellow fruit.
• Gardeners love Green Gage for its reliable cropping, compact growth habit, and the unmatched flavour of its fruit that's often described as honey-sweet with floral notes.

• Water deeply twice weekly during spring and summer, reducing to monthly in winter. Check soil moisture 5cm below surface before watering.
• Position in full sun with morning light essential - needs minimum 6 hours direct sunlight daily for fruit development and disease prevention.
• Plant in well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil enriched with compost. Avoid waterlogged or heavy clay soils that cause root problems.
• Feed with slow-release fruit tree fertiliser in early spring, then liquid feed monthly during growing season from September to February.
• Prune in late winter while dormant, removing dead wood and opening centre for air circulation. Light summer pruning after harvest is acceptable.
• Mulch around base with organic matter to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping mulch away from trunk to prevent pest harbourage.

• Plant in full sun location with at least 6 hours direct sunlight daily for best fruit production. Morning sun is particularly important for healthy growth.
• Water deeply once or twice weekly during growing season, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter months.
• Maintain consistent soil moisture during fruit development to prevent fruit drop. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
• Prune during winter dormancy to maintain shape and improve air circulation. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches annually.
• Feed with balanced fruit tree fertiliser in early spring and again in early summer for optimal fruit production.

• Aphids can cluster on new growth causing leaf curl - spray with horticultural oil or encourage beneficial insects like ladybirds. Check regularly during spring growth periods.
• Brown rot fungus affects fruit and blossoms in humid conditions - ensure good air circulation and remove affected fruit immediately. Apply copper spray during dormant season.
• Fruit fly can damage developing plums - use exclusion bags or traps during fruiting season. Maintain garden hygiene by removing fallen fruit promptly.
• Scale insects may appear on branches causing yellowing leaves - treat with horticultural oil during cooler months. Scrub off manually if infestation is minor.