My plum trees have what appears to be black knot fungus. The picture shows a recent growth; past experience indicates that it will eventually turn block, looking like a burned hotdog on a stick. It recurs even after pruning away the affected branch. I hear that a fungicide may help and would like to know which fungicide would be recommended. Any other treatment pointers would be appreciated. Thanks!
Pruning away the infected area and treatment with fungicide is recommended.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/plum/black-knot-tree-disease.htm
My plum trees have numerous green threads or bristles on lower leaves.
These are Spindle Galls.
This article has more information.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/spindle-gall-treatment.htm
Bought this plum tree five years ago and it only fruited last year with a nice dessert plum, approximately 12 of them. This year an abundance of fruit. However, see photographs which would appear to be some sort of disease. Is there anything you can suggest please?
I believe this is Plum Pocket disease.
Fungicides can help.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/plum/plum-tree-diseases.htm
Your article on plums, suggests using a low toxicity spray for controlling Plum Curculio beetles. I need some advice on a suitable product to use: one that is readily available. In past years I have used one spraying of 50% Malathion(2 tsp. per gallon) at petals dropping time. Without this one time spraying I get a very low crop of plums. Reading on the internet the information about Malathion you find frightening information, so I would like to use a safer insecticide. Can you give me instructions? Eon Williams
Unfortunately we make it a policy not to recommend brand name products, but this article gives a few recommendations for effective chemicals at the very end: http://www.extension.umn.edu/garden/yard-garden/fruit/integrated-pest-management-for-home-stone-fruit-growers/plum-curculio/index.html
My plum tree is in a very sorry state. It was attacked by plum leaf curl aphid, now what small amount if fruit there is is being eaten by a curious orange and black bug, which I would be grateful if someone could identify from the example attached
That appears to be a ladybug larvae, but since it is eating the fruit it leads me to believe that it is its close relative, and hybrid cousin... The Asian Ladybeetle larvae.
I have planted 2 plum trees about a month ago and I am wondering when should I fertilize them? Most of the info I have found tells me to do this the first year. Do they mean now or after the first year?
Fertilization during the first year is appropriate, but wait until you see some new growth in the tips of the foliage, indicating that the tree has recovered from the planting process and begun to put out new absorbing roots. Be conservative and use a slow release natural/organic fertilizer product. Harsh chemical fertilizer can burn and cause dieback. Mulch the soil surface to help retain soil moisture and enhance soil organic matter and benefical biological activity.
Here's an article that may help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/best-times-to-apply-fertilizer.htm
"As a rule, avoid fertilizing new plants until they establish. It can cause a burst of growth that makes the plant weak and leggy."
The tree started to form fruit but no fruit. Now some mould on tree.
Can you include a photo? I have a feeling that a fungal infection may have had something to do with the fruit dropping off. A photo can help me to make a better judgment call.
This article will give you some information in the meantime: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/plum/plum-tree-diseases.htm