Growing Flavor King Pluot Trees: A Comprehensive Guide

If you're a fruit-lover, then you've probably heard of the delicious pluot. This unique hybrid fruit is a cross between a plum and an apricot and it's known for its juicy and sweet flavor. One of the most popular varieties of pluots is the Flavor King Pluot, which has a deep purple color and an intense flavor. In this article, we'll provide a comprehensive guide on how to grow Flavor King Pluot trees so that you can enjoy this tasty fruit in your own backyard!

Choosing the Right Location

Before planting your Flavor King Pluot tree, you need to choose the right location. You want to pick a spot that gets plenty of sunlight and has well-drained soil. Pluot trees prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0, so it's important to test your soil before planting. If your soil is too alkaline, you can add sulfur or peat moss to lower the pH level.

Additionally, you should avoid planting your tree in an area that is prone to frost or high winds. Pluot trees are vulnerable to frost damage, so it's best to plant them in an area that is sheltered from cold winds.

Planting Your Tree

Once you've found the perfect location for your Flavor King Pluot tree, it's time to plant it. The best time to plant pluot trees is in late winter or early spring, when the ground is moist but not waterlogged.

Dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the root ball of your tree. Mix some compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to help improve drainage and add nutrients. Place the tree in the hole and fill in the space around the roots with soil, making sure to firm it down gently.

After planting, water your tree thoroughly to help settle the soil and encourage root growth.

Pruning Your Tree

Pruning is an essential part of growing Flavor King Pluot trees. It helps to shape the tree, remove dead or damaged branches, and promote healthy growth.

The best time to prune your pluot tree is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Start by removing any branches that are broken, diseased, or crossing over each other. Then, remove any vertical branches that are growing toward the center of the tree, as these can interfere with light penetration and air circulation.

Finally, use pruning shears to trim back the remaining branches to a length of about 18 inches. This will encourage the growth of new shoots and help to maintain the overall shape of the tree.

Fertilizing Your Tree

To ensure that your Flavor King Pluot tree produces healthy and abundant fruit, it's important to fertilize it regularly.

In the first year after planting, you should apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). In subsequent years, you can switch to a low-nitrogen fertilizer, which will help to promote fruit production without encouraging excessive vegetative growth.

Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates and timing. Over-fertilization can lead to excessive growth and poor fruit quality.

Harvesting Your Fruit

The Flavor King Pluot typically ripens in mid to late summer, depending on your climate. You'll know that your fruit is ready to harvest when it is slightly soft to the touch and has developed its characteristic deep purple color.

To harvest your pluots, simply twist the fruit gently until it comes off the tree. Avoid pulling or tugging on the fruit, as this can damage the branch and reduce future fruit production.

Once harvested, store your pluots in the refrigerator to help preserve their freshness and flavor. They should keep for up to a week.

Flavor King Pluot Tree Blossoms

Growing Flavor King Pluot trees can be a fun and rewarding experience. By choosing the right location, planting at the right time, pruning and fertilizing appropriately, and harvesting your fruit at the right time, you can enjoy a bountiful crop of delicious pluots in your own backyard.

Fruit trees, Gardening, Backyard orchard, Pluot variety