Elephant Heart Plum Tree

1. Planting: First, find an area with well-drained soil and full sun (6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day). Once you've selected your location, dig a hole that's approximately a foot and a half deep and equally as wide. Place your tree in the hole, tamp down the surrounding soil to remove air pockets, and then water to settle the roots. Finally, spread a layer of mulch over the soil around your tree to help encourage healthy growth and preserve moisture.

2. Watering: Water young trees heavily during the first growing season to help promote growth, then water regularly. Best to water deeply at the soil line, let the soil dry out slightly then water again. Do not let the soil become fully dry. Water well into the early autumn, to have good soil moisture through the winter.

3. Pruning: A year after planting your tree, prune in the late winter, while it's still dormant. Shape the tree to encourage horizontal branch growth with space between branches. Prune once a year as necessary to remove weak, drooping branches.

4. Fertilizing: Fertilize in the spring and midsummer using low-nitrogen fertilizer, applying 2 weeks after planting and 4 weeks after the first application. Use a complete fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, and apply 6 to 8 inches away from the trunk.

5. Location: Your location should include full sun and if possible, sheltered from excessive wind exposure. South or West facing spots out of the wind are best. Plums are tolerant of urban pollution issues and will do well in city environments. Avoid planting in low-lying areas where late spring frosts are more common.