The Ozark Premier Plum is a reliable and productive variety, known for its sweet, juicy flavor and firm texture. This Japanese-type plum ripens early in the season, usually in late June to early July, making it one of the first plums to harvest. With its vibrant red skin and golden yellow flesh, it’s perfect for fresh eating, canning, and making preserves. The Ozark Premier Plum is also prized for its disease resistance, making it a great choice for home orchards.

Key Features:

• Sweet, Firm Flavor: Juicy yellow flesh with a balanced sweet-tart flavor and firm texture.

• Harvest: Ripens in late June to early July, ahead of many other plum varieties.

• Vibrant Red Skin: Red skin with golden-yellow flesh, offering both beauty and flavor.

• Disease Resistant: Resistant to common plum diseases like bacterial canker and leaf spot.

• Versatile Use: Ideal for fresh eating, making jams, jellies, and preserves.

Mature Size:

• Height: 15–20 feet

• Spread: 15–20 feet

• Growth Rate: Moderate

USDA Hardiness Zones:

• Zones: 5–9

Chill Hours:

• 700–800 chill hours required for optimal fruiting.

Care Instructions:

• Sunlight: Prefers full sun (6+ hours daily) for the best fruit production and flowering.

• Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0 is ideal.

• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist during the growing season but avoid waterlogging.

• Pruning: Light pruning in late winter to maintain shape and improve airflow.

• Pollination: Cross-pollination with another Japanese-type plum, such as Methley or AU Cherry, is recommended for optimal fruit set.

Landscape Uses:

• Great for home orchards and small garden spaces.

• Provides ornamental beauty with its spring blossoms and sweet, flavorful fruit.

• Perfect for fresh eating, making preserves, or baking.

With its early harvest, firm texture, and sweet flavor, the Ozark Premier Plum is an excellent choice for any garden. Its disease resistance and versatile fruit make it a reliable and attractive addition to your orchard.