Plums (Prunus domestica) are among the toughest and least demanding fruit trees in Central Europe, traditionally grown in gardens and along country roads. They tolerate heavier, moister soils than other stone fruit, ideally with pH 6.0–7.0. Many varieties, including the traditional late 'Hauszwetsche' type, are self-fertile, so a single tree will crop. Plant bare-root or root-balled trees in autumn or early spring. Prune lightly, preferably in summer after harvest, as large winter wounds heal slowly and can let in silver leaf disease. Heavy crops can break branches, so thin the fruit in June and prop up laden limbs. The most serious problem is plum pox (sharka), a virus spread by aphids that causes pitted, deformed fruit that drops early; it cannot be cured, so buy certified trees and choose tolerant varieties such as 'Jojo' or 'Katinka'. Plum sawfly and plum moth cause maggoty fruit. Harvest in August and September when the fruit is soft and the stone comes away easily.