Since that time many new varieties have become available, although some may be hard to find due to lack of demand and previous difficulty in their propagation. Many cherry- plums are low growing shrubs and some are trees with ornamental value. The purpose of this fact sheet is to provide the homeowner or grower with an introduction to cherry-plums and a description of some of the varieties well adapted to Saskatchewan.
Many varieties are very hardy.
Some varieties prefer sheltered location and survive due to their low growing habit and a snow cover. Yet other varieties such a Sapa suffer winter killing on upper branches, but still produce heavily on lower branches. Low growth and heavy production of cherry-plums makes them particularly well suited to mechanical harvesting. With the advent of improved propagation methods and a processing industry cherry-plums could be a potential alternative for Saskatchewan. Cherry-plums grow well in a sandy loam soil.