Plum – President – Prunus domestica

The plum (Prunus domestica) is one of the most popular and widely distributed fruit trees, especially appreciated in Hungary. The President plum is among the best-known and most sought-after plum varieties, favored for its rich flavor, high yields, and versatile uses. Below, this variety is described in detail.

### Variety Description

**1. Appearance and Characteristics:**
The President plum tree is medium-sized and typically reaches a height of 4-6 meters, with a broad, rounded crown. The young branches are smooth and green, while the older branches develop a dark brown, cracked bark. The leaves are large, oval, and shiny green with slightly wavy edges. In spring, the trees bloom abundantly with white or light pink flowers that appear before the leaves. This flowering usually begins in early April, and the nectar-rich flowers attract many bees, which aids in pollination.

**2. Fruit:**
The fruits of the President plum are large, typically measuring 5-8 cm long and oval in shape. Their skin is smooth and shiny, in a deep blue or purple color, often with a bluish sheen. The flesh is yellowish, juicy, and sweet, with a pleasantly tart flavor. The ripening period is generally set for early September, allowing the fruits to be enjoyed fresh at the end of summer and the beginning of autumn. The President plum is excellent for making jams, syrups, dried fruits, and baked goods.

**3. Cultivation and Care:**
The President plum thrives best in sunny locations where sufficient light and warmth are available for fruit development. The soil should be well-draining and rich in nutrients to promote optimal growth. After planting, it is important to water young trees regularly, especially during the fruit ripening period. Pruning is essential to maintain the shape of the crown, promote air circulation, and ensure optimal distribution of the fruits on the tree. Spring pruning improves the tree's health and increases the yield.

**4. Diseases and Pests:**
The President plum is relatively resistant to most common diseases but can be susceptible to problems such as Monilia, leaf spots, and fruit rot under local conditions. Aphids and plum fruit flies can also damage the fruits. To promote the health of the trees, regular inspections and the application of necessary plant protection products are important. Biological control methods, such as the use of neem oil, can help manage pests.

**5. Harvest:**
The fruits of the President plum typically ripen in early September. The ripeness can be assessed based on color and firmness; ripe plums should be slightly softer and more colorful. The harvest is generally done by hand, ensuring that the fruits are not damaged, as damaged fruits spoil quickly.

**6. Uses:**
The President plum offers numerous uses that provide a variety of culinary delights:

- **Fresh Consumption:** The sweet and tart flavor of the fruits makes them an ideal snack for school, work, or home. They are a rich source of vitamins for children and adults alike.

- **Jam and Preserves:** The President plum is a popular ingredient for making jams. Due to its rich flavor and juiciness, the jam is extremely aromatic and sweet, making it perfect for baked goods or pancakes.

- **Desserts:** The plum is excellent for cakes, tarts, and muffins. With fresh President plums, delicious pies or crumbles can be made that the whole family will enjoy.

- **Dried Fruits:** The President plum can also be dried, allowing it to be stored for a long time and serving as a healthy snack. Dried plums are ideal for snacking or can be used in mueslis, salads, and other dishes.

- **Juices and Smoothies:** Freshly squeezed plum juice or smoothies are particularly popular, as the natural sweetness and flavor of the fruit shine through in these beverages.