Plums

How to select

Choose round, smooth plums free of bruises or soft spots.

How to prepare

• Rinse the plum under running water and pat dry with a clean cloth or paper towel. 
• Using a knife, cut the plum in half all the way to the pit by going along the "seam". 
• Twist each half in different directions to separate each half. Remove the pit. 
• Some plums require cutting the fruit away from the pit with a knife.

How to store

Ripen plums in a paper bag at room temperature. Ripe plums can be stored in the refrigerator.

Peak season

Summer

Ways to use

• Cut dried plums (prunes) and put them in a trail mix. 
• Fresh plums are perfect for picnics - just grab and go.
• Add fresh or dried plums to a salad.

Fun facts

• Ripe plums range in size from a cherry to a baseball. 
• In 1905, monkeys were used to harvest plums during a labor shortage in California. 
• Plums are related to peaches and apricots.

Nutrition info and facts

Plums are a good source of vitamin A, which promotes healthy eyes. Plums are naturally cholesterol-free. Dried plums (prunes) are known for their laxative effect and are used to treat constipation.

1 plum = 30 calories, 8 g carbohydrate, 1 g fiber, 7 g sugar, 5% daily vitamin A, 10% daily vitamin C, 5% daily vitamin K, 3% daily potassium

Learn more

Growing stone fruits in the home garden (UMN Extension)