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Poorly Plum Tree

CarolinedukeCarolineduke Posts: 4
in Fruit & veg
Hi,

I bought a new Victoria plum tree in February, and all the signs looked promising.  It was shooting, had blossom, even has a couple of baby plums although not expecting much. I then noticed a couple of leaves looked like they were being nibbled, but not enough for me to worry too much.  But today I’ve found it not looking well at all - see picture.

I was wondering if anyone is able to diagnose the problem?  I’m hoping it’s treatable...

Thank you in advance for any help - it will be much appreciated.


Posts

  • AnniDAnniD Posts: 12,585
    *Bump*  :)
  • BobTheGardenerBobTheGardener Posts: 11,385
    edited June 2020
    Water, water, water.  Slowly pour 2 bucketfuls (20 litres) of water over the root area (so it soaks in and doesn't run off of the surface) every 2 or 3 days until the tree naturally drops its leaves in Autumn.  It has been an exceptionally dry year in many parts of the UK and newly planted trees and shrubs are suffering in particular.  Trees weakened by drought stress are susceptible to pests and diseases which they would normally shrug off, and that is what has likely happened here.  If the tree shows no improvement in 6 weeks, please post more photos including one of the whole tree.  I would advise against feeding the tree or using any commercial products on it at this stage.  If the tree has plants/weeds/grass growing at the base, those (grass and weeds in particular) will always out-compete a fruit tree, so you need to clear an approximately 1 metre diameter area around the trunk.  If you could mulch that area with garden compost or bark for example, that will slow down evaporation from the soil and be of great benefit to the tree.
    A trowel in the hand is worth a thousand lost under a bush.
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