Plums

Plums do best in rich, moist but well-drained loam or clay loam in full sun. To create a solid, productive tree, prune out weaker branches and lightly cut back a few stronger ones in spring for the first few years. This will force branches to grow in girth rather than length and to form a solid trunk. After two or three years, the tree should be well formed; after that, simply remove water sprouts, cut back overly vigorous leaders or branches, and thin out weak or crowded growth to ensure good air circulation.