You should now have a framework of around eight branches. In the third year, cut back the previous year’s growth on the main branches by a third and remove any upright shoots at the top of the tree.Shorten the selected shoots by half by pruning to an outward-facing bud. In the second year, choose the best shoots, between three and five, and remove any others.In the first year, cut back an unfeathered maiden’s single stem to a bud that’s around 75cm above ground, making sure there are at least three or four good buds below it.Unfeathered maidens take three years to prune into shape: Alternatively, plant a feathered maiden – a tree that already has strong side shoots from the main stem. However, getting the final shape for a free-standing bush plum usually takes two or three years, depending on what type of tree you plant.Īn unfeathered maiden – a single stem without side shoots, will take the longest. Unlike apples and pears, plums don't need a lot of regular pruning once the shape has been established. Cool for 15 minutes, then remove the sides of the pan and serve warm or at room temperature.An award winning plum variety with good frost resistance Bake for 1 hour, until the fruit is bubbling and the crust is golden. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture evenly on top. Arrange the plums in concentric circles on the crust. With floured hands, lightly pat the dough evenly in the bottom of the pan and 1 inch up the sides. Set aside 3/4 cup of the crumb mixture and pour the rest into the springform pan. Add 1 tablespoon of cold water and continue to beat for about 30 seconds, until the mixture forms large, moist crumbs. With the mixer on low, gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture until it forms small, dry crumbs. In a small bowl, combine the flour, cinnamon, salt, and baking powder. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the butter and remaining 1 cup of sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy.

Place the plums, tapioca, creme de cassis, and 3/4 cup of the sugar in a mixing bowl and stir to combine. Butter and flour a 9-inch springform pan and place it on a sheet pan.

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