Greengage
Prunus italica
fruitGreengages are small, greenish-yellow stone fruits renowned for their exceptional sweetness and rich flavor, often considered the finest-flavored plums. These trees are moderately vigorous and require warm summers to develop full sweetness; they are less hardy than common plums. They typically benefit from cross-pollination with compatible plum varieties.
Common Problems
Select the problem your Greengage is experiencing to get a treatment guide.
Care Guide
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Light
Full sun (7–8 hours daily minimum) essential for sweetness and color development.
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Water
Regular, deep watering during growing and fruiting season. Keep soil moist but well-draining; water stress reduces fruit quality and size.
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Soil
Rich, well-draining loamy soil with pH 6.0–7.0. Incorporate compost or aged manure to enhance fertility and moisture retention.
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Fertiliser
Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring; supplement with potassium-rich fertilizer in mid-season to boost sugar content and flavor.
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Temperature
Prefers warmer summers than other plums; needs 600–800 chill hours. Frost-tender during flowering; site away from frost pockets.
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Humidity
Moderate humidity preferred. Ensure excellent air circulation to minimize fungal diseases.
Toxicity
check_circleSafe for Catscheck_circleSafe for Dogscheck_circleSafe for Children
Fruit is completely safe; pit contains negligible amygdalin.
Common Diseases
Common Pests
Seasonal Care
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Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.
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Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.
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Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.
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Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.