Pollination of plums
Pollination is more often a problem with plums than with apples. Plums bloom earlier, and are more at risk for frost. The smaller petals of plum blossoms are not as effective in attracting bees. There aren’t so many plum trees planted, even in towns, and the wild plums seem to have died off. To help pollinate your plum trees, plant two trees of different varieties close to each other. The Toka plum has earned a reputation as the best pollinator, but any plum should do. Grandpa used to clump two plum trees in the same hole, or he would shake a bouquet of wild plum near the blooms of the tame plum to ensure pollination.
Protecting plum blossoms from frost
Plums blossom earlier than apples, and their blossoms can be caught by the last frost, particularly in seasons with an early warm spell. To delay the blooming of plums, some people plant them in a slightly shaded area. Although the tree will appear more sparse, a well-protected partly-shady location might also extend the life of a plum tree.
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