How to Grow Plum Damson Frogmore
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Plum Damson Frogmore
Prunus domestica subsp. insititia 'Frogmore'
treeFrogmore is a damson plum variety known for producing small, dark purple fruits with a distinctive tart flavor ideal for preserves and cooking. This hardy, self-fertile tree is relatively compact and productive, making it suitable for home gardens. Damson plums are a traditional European variety prized for their rich flavor and culinary versatility.
When should you plant Plum Damson Frogmore in your zone?
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Example Plum Damson Frogmore timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Plum Damson Frogmore
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Plum Damson Frogmore
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-8, hardy to zone 4b with winter protection
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Get my Plum Damson Frogmore timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
1-2 yearsYoung tree focuses on root and branch development; minimal flowering in first 1-2 years
Water regularly and deeply; stake if necessary for wind protection; prune to establish framework; avoid heavy nitrogen fertilization
Early Fruiting
2-3 yearsTree begins to flower in spring and set small fruit; branches are still developing primary scaffold structure
Thin flowers if excessive to prevent branch breakage; maintain consistent watering; light pruning to shape; apply balanced fertilizer in spring
Flowering
2-3 weeksAbundant white or pale pink blossoms appear in spring (April-May in Northern Hemisphere) before leaves fully emerge; highly attractive to pollinators
Protect from late frosts if possible; avoid pruning during flowering; ensure consistent water availability; monitor for pests and diseases
Fruiting & Development
8-10 weeksFruits develop from fertilized flowers, growing to pea-size in early summer then enlarging to marble-size by mid-summer; color transitions from green to deep purple
Thin fruits to 3-4 inches apart to encourage larger specimens; water consistently; provide support for heavy branches; monitor for fruit flies and wasps
Harvest & Dormancy
6-8 weeks (harvest period); 4-5 months dormancyFruits mature to deep purple in late summer (August-September); leaves yellow and drop in autumn; tree enters dormancy
Harvest when fully ripe and slightly soft; prune in winter while dormant to remove dead wood and shape; thin overcrowded branches for air circulation
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove affected fruits promptly; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil at petal fall; encourage natural predators
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Use pheromone traps; wrap tree bands around trunk; thin fruit to prevent shelter; apply kaolin clay or horticultural oil sprays
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Remove damaged fruit immediately; use wasp traps away from tree; avoid pruning that exposes fruit; encourage natural predators
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Spray forceful water stream; apply insecticidal soap; use neem oil; introduce ladybugs and lacewings
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Prune infected branches 12 inches below knot; sterilize tools between cuts; improve air circulation; apply sulfur or copper fungicide in dormant season
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Remove affected fruits; thin branches for air circulation; spray with sulfur in early spring before budbreak; rake up fallen leaves
Uses
Jams, Jellies & Preserves
CulinaryDamson plums are legendary for jam and jelly making due to their high pectin content and tart flavor. A single Frogmore tree can produce sufficient fruit for several jars of preserves annually. [source]
Baking & Desserts
CulinaryUse fresh or cooked damsons in pies, tarts, compotes, and sauces. The distinctive tartness pairs well with sweet pastries and creams. [source]
Damson Cheese & Fruit Pastes
CulinaryA traditional preparation where fruit is cooked down to a thick paste that can be stored and sliced. Rich in natural sugars when concentrated. [source]
Digestive & Laxative Properties
MedicinalDamson plums have been traditionally used to support digestive health and mild constipation relief. Contain sorbitol and dietary fiber. [source]
Pollinator & Wildlife Support
WildlifeThe abundant spring blossoms attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators essential for fruit production and garden ecosystem health. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Pick fruits when deep purple and slightly soft to the touch, typically late August through September. Harvest in early morning when cool. Damson plums can be picked slightly firm for cooking but are best fully ripe for fresh eating or preserves. Leave fruits on tree for maximum sugar development if possible.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Damson plums derive their name from Damascus, Syria, where they were cultivated centuries ago before being brought to Europe by traders.
- 🌱 Frogmore is notably self-fertile, meaning a single tree can produce fruit without requiring a separate pollinator tree, though cross-pollination increases yields.
- 🌱 Damson plums have been used historically to create natural dyes for textiles, producing rich purple and indigo colors.
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