Plum tree problems
Hi there
Our plum tree is looking very sorry for itself - it started off with shrivelled, yellowing leaves, then shrivelled fruit.
I thought it might be dry, but repeated watering doesn't seem to have helped. I was also wondering if an ant nest found at the base of the tree had damaged the roots.
It's a young tree, this is its second year and the first year it has fruited.
Have included some pictures - would be interested to know what might be wrong and whether the tree can be saved.



Our plum tree is looking very sorry for itself - it started off with shrivelled, yellowing leaves, then shrivelled fruit.
I thought it might be dry, but repeated watering doesn't seem to have helped. I was also wondering if an ant nest found at the base of the tree had damaged the roots.
It's a young tree, this is its second year and the first year it has fruited.
Have included some pictures - would be interested to know what might be wrong and whether the tree can be saved.



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If the roots haven't managed to grow much it may be they are unable to take up the water you give them.
I would recommend you remove the fruits and affected leaves so it isn't trying to do too much at once.
Give it a general slow release feed, eg blood, fish and bone or Gromore.
Hopefully you will see some improvement.
Good luck
Thanks for the helpful advice, I'll try that this weekend and hope for some improvement!
Planting level is also important on young trees. Planted a little too deep, the tree will suffer and in some cases the tree may die. Soil preparation, particularly on heavy soils need to be carefully prepared. Back-fill with similar soil mixed with some loam-based compost. Avoid just using compost as that just creates a spongy texture where the roots of the plants fail to reach to the surrounding soil.
Don't be put off with watering if you have checked for all the above. Slow deep watering into the base in evening or early mornings at this time of year. Water at least two bucket full every 3 days or more often when it gets even hotter.
It's also a cold soil and takes a while to warm up when plants should be putting on new growth. As you mention the soil is now like rock and will be difficult to water.
Can you work in some sharp sand or horticultural grit around the roots of the tree?
I would recommend doing that with anything you plant to try and aid drainage. Also add soil improver such as home-made compost or well rotted manure, or similar to aerate the soil.
I've also noticed today that one of the branches was damaged, albeit a while ago, so not sure if that will have also contributed to the problem.
Have taken all the fruit and leaves off now so will start watering and feeding more. Thanks again.