Plum Cherry Little Chum

• Little Chum is a compact plum variety specifically bred for small spaces and container growing. It typically reaches 2-3 metres tall, making it perfect for suburban gardens and patios.
• This self-fertile variety produces abundant crops of small, sweet plums with reddish-purple skin and yellow flesh. The fruit has an excellent sweet-tart flavour reminiscent of cherries.
• Originally developed for cooler climates, it adapts well to Australian conditions and requires minimal winter chill hours. The attractive spring blossoms also provide ornamental value before fruiting.

• Water deeply once or twice weekly in growing season, reducing to monthly in winter - check soil moisture before watering. Increase frequency during fruit development and hot weather.
• Position in full sun with morning light essential - at least 6 hours direct sunlight daily for optimal fruit production. Protect from strong winds and extreme heat.
• Use well-draining potting mix or garden soil enriched with compost - avoid heavy clay or waterlogged conditions. Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Feed with balanced fruit tree fertiliser in early spring and again after harvest - avoid high-nitrogen during fruiting period. Apply potassium-rich fertiliser during fruit development.
• Prune in late winter to maintain size and shape, removing dead or crossing branches - thin fruit clusters for better size and quality.

• Plant in full sun location with at least 6 hours direct sunlight daily for best fruit production. Morning sun with afternoon protection works well in hot Australian climates.
• Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings - increase frequency during fruit development. Reduce watering in winter when tree is dormant.
• Apply balanced fertiliser in early spring and again after harvest to support healthy growth and fruit development. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds during fruiting period.
• Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead or crossing branches. Thin fruit clusters in early summer for larger, better quality plums.

• Aphids can cluster on new growth - spray with insecticidal soap or encourage natural predators like ladybirds. Check undersides of leaves regularly during spring growth.
• Brown rot affects ripening fruit in humid conditions - remove infected fruit immediately and improve air circulation. Apply copper spray during dormant season as prevention.
• Overwatering causes yellowing leaves and root rot - ensure excellent drainage and allow soil to dry between waterings. Mulch around base but keep away from trunk.
• Scale insects appear as small brown bumps on branches - scrape off manually or apply horticultural oil during winter dormancy.