How to Grow Prunus

Prunus is a large plant genus which includes deciduous ornamental flowering plums and cherries and many of the spring flowering fruit and nut trees such as peaches, almonds, plums and cherries. As well as evergreen prunus such as the Portuguese laurel. There are many species and varieties which differ in size, leaf and flower colour, flower form (single or double) and the time of flowering. Generally, this group of beautiful trees prefers full sunlight, good drainage and a cool, winter climate.

Full sun

Regular watering

Well drained

Check variety

How to grow prunus in a garden

Step 1

Choose a sunny spot with well drained soil. Enrich the soil with Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser. If the soil is clay based, add gypsum and fork in well.

Step 2

Dig the planting hole twice as wide and to the same depth as the root-ball. Remove the tree from the container (or bag if the tree is 'bare rooted'), gently tease the roots and cut away any circled or tangled roots.

Step 3

Position in hole and backfill, gently firming down. Form a raised ring around the plant, creating a well so that water will go where it's needed most. Water in well.

Step 4

Mulch around the base with organic mulch like bark chips, sugarcane or pea straw, keeping it away from the trunk.

Step 5

Water deeply, once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions. Deciduous prunus will require minimal or no watering during winter.

How to grow prunus in a pot

Step 1

Choose a compact or dwarf variety that's suitable for growing in a container. Choose a pot at least 600mm wide and deep. Position in full sun.

Step 2

Fill chosen pot with quality potting mix, such as Yates Dynamic Lifter Potting Mix. Remove the tree from the container (or bag if the tree is 'bare rooted'), gently tease the roots and cut away any circled or tangled roots.