Hybrid plum (Prunus sp.) MINJONA

Hybrid Plum (Prunus sp.) 'Minjona'

A compact and productive plum with extra-sweet fruits.

'Minjona' is a Latvian hybrid plum that is an ideal choice for gardeners who prefer smaller trees. It stands out for its low growth and early entry into abundant and annual bearing. The fruits are medium to large, with an attractive dark purple color and a blue bloom. The flesh is dark yellow, firm, juicy, and distinctly sweet due to its very high sugar and low acid content. A major advantage is its stone, which separates very easily from the flesh.

Main advantages of the variety:

• Compact growth: Suitable even for the smallest gardens, easy to maintain.
• Very sweet fruits: The flesh has a high sugar content (up to 20 °Brix) and low acidity.
• Completely freestone: Makes it easy to eat and process.
• Early and regular productivity: Delivers an abundant harvest every year.
• Partially self-fertile: Will set fruit even without a pollinator, especially in unfavorable conditions.

Origin and Registration

• Country of origin: Latvia
• Breeder: Pēteris Upītis
• Year of registration: 1999

Variety Characteristics

Tree

Growth is low, with a sparse and spreading crown, which ensures good light exposure for the fruits. It is partially self-fertile. For maximum yields, a pollinator is recommended (another plum tree blooming at the same time).

Fruit

• Size: Medium to large.
• Skin: Dark brownish-purple with a prominent blue bloom.
• Flesh: Dark yellow, firm, and juicy. The stone separates very well.
• Taste: Good, aromatic, and distinctly sweet.

Resistance and Requirements

• Frost hardiness: The variety has good frost hardiness, and the flower buds are even very resistant.
• Diseases: It has medium resistance and may require protection against plum leaf spot.
• Pruning: Requires regular renewal pruning every 2–4 years to maintain vitality and fruit quality.

Growing Recommendations

• Suitability: Ideal for gardeners looking for a smaller tree with sweet fruits.
• Use: Excellent for fresh consumption, drying (due to high sugar content), and other processing.

Harvest and Storage

• Harvest time: Late August to early September.
• Harvesting note: Ripe fruits tend to drop, so timely harvesting is recommended.
• Storability: Intended for immediate consumption or quick processing.