The Nigra plum is an ornamental tree and a true culinary masterpiece, popular among gardeners and fruit lovers. Since its introduction, this variety has become renowned for its unusual fruits with a vibrant flavor and delicate aroma. The plant boasts numerous beneficial properties. With proper care, abundant harvests are possible.
Introduction to the variety
Developed in 1916 in North America, it grows in the lowlands of the Alps and the Himalayas.
| Name | Tree height | Leaf color | Fruit size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wild (spread) | 9-10 m | Purple fading to black | 2-3 cm |
| Cultural | 9-10 m | Purple fading to black | 2-3 cm |
Description of the plant
This is a very picturesque tree. Breeders distinguish two varieties: wild (or spreading) and cultivated. The name comes from its appearance: the branches point in different directions, creating an asymmetrical crown.
Distinguishing characteristics:
- It reaches 9-10 m in height and grows slowly, with an average annual growth rate of 18-20 cm. The bark is dark in color: in young seedlings it is reddish-brown, and with age it becomes almost black.
- The leaves have a unique purple hue that fades to black. They are large and long (12-14 cm), with serrated edges and a glossy surface.
- The root system is sensitive, superficial and does not form shoots.
- ✓ Annual branch growth does not exceed 20 cm, which is a key indicator of plant health.
- ✓ Leaves change color from purple to almost black throughout the season, which is unique to this variety.
Blooming occurs profusely from mid-April to early May. The pink inflorescences are cup-shaped.
Features of the fruit
The fruits are edible and shaped like small balls, 2-3 cm in diameter. Their color ranges from dark red to purple. The taste is sweet with a slight tartness.
Taste characteristics
Plums have an interesting marmalade taste and a very pleasant rich aroma.
Use in landscape design
Nigra fits beautifully into green compositions, creating a contrasting and striking look. It looks especially striking next to birches, silver willows, and various shrubs, such as honeysuckle.
These low-growing trees resemble shrubs and can be used as hedges. This variety tolerates pruning well. Plum alleys look very colorful, providing a riot of color from April until fall.
Culinary and medicinal uses
The fruit is used to make jams, preserves, pies, puddings, marmalades, and many other sweets. Its rich and full-bodied flavor adds a special charm to many desserts, making them unique. It is also used to produce alcoholic beverages: liqueurs, wines, and cordials.
Medicinal uses:
- It is a source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that help maintain health and fight various diseases.
- Useful for problems with the digestive system (constipation or diarrhea), strengthens the immune system.
- Antioxidant properties help fight harmful free radicals and prevent premature skin aging.
This is not only a delicious treat but also a unique medicine that can be used to maintain health and create unforgettable dishes. Before consuming fruit, it is important to consult a doctor or natural medicine specialist.
Flowering and lifespan
The plant attracts attention with its magnificent blooms. In spring, white flowers bloom on the branches, filling the garden with a delicate fragrance. With proper care, the plant can live for about 20-30 years.
Beneficial properties and nutritional value
Nigra is a source of numerous vitamins and minerals. It contains vitamins A, C, E, K, and B vitamins, as well as minerals such as potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, and calcium. These elements play a vital role in maintaining overall health and proper bodily function.
Dietary fiber promotes normal digestive function, improves intestinal motility, and prevents constipation. It lowers blood cholesterol levels, which, in turn, prevents the development of cardiovascular disease.
Fruits contain powerful antioxidants (anthocyanins and flavonoids). These substances protect cells from free radicals, which can cause inflammation and DNA damage. Regular consumption helps combat oxidative stress and slow down the aging process.
Productivity
The crop's productivity depends on a number of factors, including growing conditions, care, and the tree's age. At maturity (approximately 6-7 years), a tree can yield 20 to 40 kg of fruit per season, and with proper care and optimal conditions, this figure can increase to 50 kg or more.
Growing procedure
Growing this variety doesn't require much effort. It's important to adhere to certain guidelines and follow the recommendations of experienced gardeners.
Tips for choosing a location
The plant prefers sunny locations, so choose a site that will receive adequate sunlight throughout the day. If you plan to grow it in the south, keep in mind that it may require partial shade. A good option is a location with some shade, such as next to a tree.
Nigra is sensitive to strong winds, so grow it in a sheltered area. This will help prevent damage and promote healthy growth.
Required conditions and soil
The soil should be slightly acidic. Ensure the pH level is between 5.5 and 6.5 for optimal plant growth.. Before planting, prepare the soil by adding organic fertilizer. This will enrich it with essential nutrients and support the growth and development of the seedling.
Landing
To ensure a successful event, simply follow a few general guidelines. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Soak the seedling in water for 2-3 hours so that the root ball is well saturated.
- Dig a hole measuring 60x80 cm.
- Place limestone or eggshells at the bottom of the hole, as plums love calcium.
- Drive a stake into the center for support.
- Place the seedling in the hole and fill it with soil, compacting it gently. Fill with a soil mixture: 3 parts turf, 1 part sand, and 2 parts compost.
- Tie the tree to the stake.
- Make a hole around the seedling and pour in 25 liters of water.
Mulch the tree trunk area with sawdust, dry soil, or peat. When planting multiple seedlings, maintain a distance of approximately 3 meters between them.
Proper care
To obtain a bountiful and high-quality harvest, the plant requires minimal care. Follow simple agricultural recommendations that will significantly improve productivity.
Top dressing
Fertilizing is an important part of plant care. It helps provide the tree with the necessary nutrients for vigorous growth and fruiting.
- • Apply nitrogen fertilizer only at the beginning of the growing season to avoid stimulating excess growth at the expense of fruiting.
- • Use organic fertilizers in the form of compost or humus in the fall to improve the soil structure and its nutritional value.
Recommended scheme:
- The first feeding should be carried out in the spring, using complex mineral compositions containing nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.
- During the period of active fruiting, use organic fertilizers - compost or humus.
- Apply potassium fertilizers in the fall to prepare the tree for winter.
Follow dosage recommendations to avoid damaging the plant.
- × Do not use cold water directly from a well or borehole for irrigation, as this may stress the plant and reduce yield.
- × Avoid over-watering the soil, especially during the ripening period, to prevent cracking of the fruits.
Watering
The plant requires regular watering, especially during flowering and fruit formation. Maintain moderate soil moisture, avoiding both drying out and waterlogging. Water the seedling with warm, settled water, directing the stream at the roots to avoid dripping onto the foliage.
Pruning and crown shaping techniques
Perform the first pruning immediately after planting, removing damaged and diseased branches. Subsequently, perform sanitary pruning, removing old, crossing, and crowding branches.
Crown shaping will help create open space for sunlight, which will improve fruit quality. The optimal time for this is early spring, before the sap begins to flow.
Harvesting
Plums ripen in late August to early September. Pick them in dry weather, when they are soft to the touch. Pick by hand, gently twisting them to avoid damage.
For storage, select specimens free from damage and signs of rot. Harvest regularly to prevent overripening and fruit falling off.
Diseases and pests
Nigra has a strong immune system, but if not properly cared for, it can be susceptible to various problems. The most common diseases include moniliosis, clasterosporium, and fungal infections.
To prevent diseases, follow agricultural practices, carry out preventative treatments with fungicides, and monitor the condition of the plant.
Pests that can infest plum trees include codling moths and aphids. Regular inspection and insecticide spraying will help protect the crop from pests.
Preparing for winter
A month before the onset of frost, prune and remove plant debris from the area to prevent disease. Mulch the soil around the trunk with a layer of organic material to retain heat.
Features of propagation of plum
There are several ways to increase the number of seedlings in your garden. Choose the option that best suits you:
- Seeds. This is one of the simplest and most accessible methods, but it requires time and patience. Collect ripe fruits and extract the seeds. To improve germination, stratify them: place them in a moist environment (such as sand) and leave them in a cool place or in the refrigerator for 2-3 months.
After stratification, plant the seedlings in open ground or containers. Use loose, fertile soil. Plant the seeds 2-3 cm deep and water.
Water the seeds regularly and provide them with sufficient sunlight. The seeds will begin to germinate in 2-4 weeks. Once the seedlings emerge, transplant them, ensuring adequate spacing between seedlings. - By vaccination. This is a faster and more efficient propagation method that allows you to preserve varietal traits. Choose healthy specimens with good characteristics. The rootstock must be compatible with the scion.
Use the copulation or "cleft" method (like a "rim"). In this case, make cuts on the rootstock and scion, then connect them and secure them with insulating tape or a special material.
Check the graft regularly and monitor its condition. If done correctly, the graft will take root, and you'll be able to harvest the new tree in the future. - By layering. This method allows you to easily grow a new plant from an existing one. Select a healthy, flexible shoot and bend it to the ground—use this year's specimens. Place the shoot on the ground and secure it in place.
Make a small cut at the bottom to encourage rooting. Cover the bent area with soil, leaving the top part above ground. Water thoroughly.
During the growing season, provide regular watering and care. After a year, the cuttings will develop roots, after which you can separate them from the mother plant and transplant them to their permanent location.
Each method has its advantages. Seed propagation is suitable for those who enjoy experimenting, grafting is for those who want to quickly obtain high-quality plants, and layering is for gardeners who prefer a natural process. The choice depends on personal preference and goals.
Positive and negative qualities
Reviews
The Nigra plum is a versatile and attractive variety that fits perfectly into any garden. Its fruits not only delight with their flavor and aroma, but also offer health benefits thanks to their nutritional properties. With proper care and growing conditions, you can enjoy abundant harvests for many years to come.