Prunus Salicina 'Santa Rosa'

• This Japanese plum variety originated in California and has become one of the most popular plum cultivars grown in Australian home gardens.
• Santa Rosa is self-fertile, meaning it doesn't require another plum tree nearby for pollination, though cross-pollination can increase yields.
• The fruit ripens in late spring to early summer, offering one of the earliest plum harvests of the season.
• Stunning white spring blossoms provide ornamental value before the delicious fruit develops.
• Gardeners love this variety for its reliable cropping, sweet flavour profile, and versatility in the kitchen for both fresh eating and preserves.

• Water deeply once or twice weekly during active growth and fruiting, reducing to monthly during winter dormancy. Check soil 10cm down before watering to prevent root issues.
• Position in full sun receiving at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for the sweetest fruit and strongest growth.
• Plant in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil enriched with compost and organic matter for best results.
• Feed with a balanced fruit tree fertiliser in early spring as buds swell, then again after harvest to replenish nutrients.
• Prune annually in late winter to maintain an open centre, remove crossing branches, and encourage fruiting wood on younger growth.
• Thin developing fruit to 5-8cm apart in early summer to produce larger, higher quality plums and prevent branch breakage.
• Protect ripening fruit from birds using netting and monitor for fruit fly in warmer regions during harvest season.
• Requires winter chill hours for proper flowering, making it ideal for temperate and cooler subtropical Australian regions.

• Plant in full sun position with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal fruit production and sweetness.
• Water deeply once or twice weekly during fruiting season, reducing frequency in winter when the tree is dormant. Check soil moisture before watering to avoid overwatering.
• Apply a thick layer of organic mulch around the root zone, keeping it away from the trunk to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Feed with a complete fruit tree fertiliser in early spring and again after harvest to support healthy growth and fruiting.
• Prune in late winter while dormant to maintain an open vase shape, removing dead wood and encouraging fruiting wood. Thin fruit in early summer for larger, better quality plums.
• Chill hours during winter are essential for good flowering and fruiting, making this variety suited to cooler Australian climates.

• Aphids may cluster on new growth, causing leaf curl and sticky honeydew. Spray with horticultural oil or encourage beneficial insects like ladybirds to control infestations.
• Brown rot fungal disease affects fruit and blossoms, particularly in humid conditions. Remove infected fruit promptly and ensure good air circulation through pruning.
• Fruit fly is a major pest in warmer regions, causing maggoty fruit. Use exclusion bags, traps, or follow area-wide management programs during fruiting season.
• Scale insects can appear on branches, weakening the tree. Treat with white oil during winter dormancy for best control.
• Overwatering leads to root rot and yellowing leaves. Ensure well-drained soil and water deeply but infrequently to maintain healthy roots.