Wildlife value of Plum Tree — an unexpected bonus

I planted Plum Tree primarily for ornamental reasons. What I didn't anticipate was the wildlife it would attract. harvest of home-grown fruit with exceptional fresh flavour seems to be particularly appealing to bees and butterflies during the main growing period.

I grow it in a sheltered south or west-facing garden wall as an espalier which allows me to watch the activity up close. harvest from late summer through autumn depending on variety is the most active period for wildlife visits. formative pruning in the first three years to build good structure is important for keeping the plant healthy enough to flower well and provide that value. late frost damage to blossom in exposed positions is the thing to watch — it reduces flowering and therefore wildlife visits if left unchecked. A plant that earns its place twice over.