Plums, with their juicy flesh and sweet-tart flavor, are a delicious summer treat. However, they are also a delicate fruit, and if not stored properly, they can quickly lose their freshness and flavor.
Whether you’re picking plums from your own tree or buying them from the market, there are a few simple steps you can take to ensure that they stay fresh and flavorful for as long as possible. First, choose plums that are ripe but not overripe. Overripe plums will be soft and mushy, and they will not store well. Look for plums that are firm to the touch and have a deep, rich color.
Once you have chosen your plums, gently wash them in cold water and pat them dry with a clean towel. Do not over-wash the plums, as this can damage their delicate skin. Next, place the plums in a single layer in a shallow container. Do not overcrowd the plums, as this can promote bruising. Cover the container with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Plums can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Selecting Ripe Plums
Choosing ripe plums is crucial for optimal storage. Here are some guidelines to identify perfectly ripe fruits:
Appearance
- Look for plums with a deep, uniform color. Avoid fruits with bruises, cuts, or blemishes.
- The skin should be smooth and slightly wrinkled, indicating ripeness without overripeness.
- Avoid plums with a dull or overly glossy appearance, which suggests under- or overripeness, respectively.
Aroma
- Ripe plums emit a sweet, fruity fragrance. If you can’t detect any scent, the plums may not be ripe enough.
- Avoid plums with an overly strong or pungent aroma, as this could indicate spoilage.
Touch
- Ripe plums should yield slightly to gentle pressure. Avoid fruits that are too firm or overly soft.
- If the plum feels spongy or mushy when pressed, it is probably overripe and should be avoided.
Remember, the ideal ripeness may vary slightly between plum varieties. Therefore, it’s always wise to familiarize yourself with the specific characteristics of the type you are purchasing.
Preparing Plums for Storage
Selecting Plums
When choosing plums for storage, look for firm, blemish-free fruits. Avoid soft or bruised plums, as these will deteriorate quickly. Choose plums that are fully ripe, as they will have the best flavor and nutritional value.
Washing and Drying Plums
Before storing plums, wash them thoroughly in cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Use a soft brush to gently remove any stubborn dirt. After washing, pat the plums dry with a clean towel or paper towels to prevent mold growth.
Preparing Plums for Long-Term Storage
If you plan to store plums for a longer period, consider the following steps:
| Preparation Method | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Freezing | Pit and slice plums. Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 6 months. |
| Drying | Cut plums into thin slices. Spread slices on a baking sheet and dry in a dehydrator or oven at the lowest temperature setting for several hours. |
| Pickling | Combine plums, vinegar, sugar, spices, and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes. Pack the mixture into sterilized jars and seal. Store in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months. |
Refrigeration for Short-Term Storage
Refrigeration is a suitable method for storing plums for short periods, typically up to 3-4 days. Follow these steps for optimal storage:
1. Select Ripe Plums
Choose ripe but firm plums without bruises or cracks. Gently wash them and pat them dry.
2. Place in Unsealed Container
Place the plums in an unsealed plastic or glass container. Avoid overcrowding to prevent spoilage.
3. Adjust Humidity and Temperature
To preserve freshness and flavor, store plums in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer, which maintains higher humidity levels. Keep the temperature around 32-38°F (0-3°C).
| Plum Variety | Ideal Storage Temperature |
|---|---|
| European Plums | 32-34°F (0-1°C) |
| Japanese Plums | 34-36°F (1-2°C) |
| Damson Plums | 36-38°F (2-3°C) |
Controlled Atmosphere Storage for Long-Term Storage
Plums can be stored for extended periods under controlled atmosphere (CA) conditions. CA storage involves manipulating the levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen in the storage environment to slow down the ripening process and reduce spoilage. Plums are typically stored in CA at temperatures between 32°F (0°C) and 38°F (3°C) with the following gas concentrations:
| Gas | Concentration (%) |
|---|---|
| Oxygen | 2-5 |
| Carbon Dioxide | 5-10 |
| Nitrogen | 85-93 |
These conditions help maintain fruit firmness, reduce decay, and preserve flavor and nutritional value. CA storage can extend the storage life of plums by several weeks to months, allowing them to be transported and marketed over longer distances.
It’s important to note that CA storage is a specialized process that requires controlled environments and expertise. Improper management of CA conditions can lead to adverse effects on fruit quality, so it’s essential to consult with qualified professionals for optimal storage practices.
In addition to CA storage, other factors that can influence the storage life of plums include cultivar selection, maturity stage at harvest, proper handling, and packaging. By carefully managing these factors, it’s possible to maintain plum quality and extend their shelf life for optimal consumption and enjoyment.
Freezing Plums for Preservation
One of the best ways to store plums is to freeze them. This method is great for preserving the fruit’s flavor and texture, and it’s also very easy to do. Here’s how to freeze plums and keep them fresh for months:
What you’ll need:
• Plums
• Freezer safe bags or containers
Optional: Sugar or honey
Instructions:
1. Wash and prepare the plums:
Rinse the plums under cold water and remove any stems or leaves. If desired, you can also peel and pit the plums before freezing them.
2. Sugar or honey (optional):
For a sweeter frozen treat, you can sprinkle sugar or honey over the plums before freezing. This step is optional, depending on your preference.
3. Place the plums in freezer bags or containers:
Spread the plums in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to leave some headspace at the top of the bag or container to allow for expansion.
4. Seal the bags or containers:
Seal the freezer bags or containers tightly. You can use a vacuum sealer to remove as much air as possible, which will help the plums stay fresher for longer.
5. Freeze the plums:
Place the sealed bags or containers in the freezer. Frozen plums will keep for up to 6 months.
6. Thaw and enjoy:
When you’re ready to eat the plums, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours. Thawed plums can be eaten fresh, added to smoothies, or used in baking.
Drying Plums for Extended Shelf Life
Drying plums is a simple and effective way to extend their shelf life and enjoy their flavor throughout the year. Follow these steps to dry plums properly:
6. Drying Techniques
There are several methods to dry plums, each with its own advantages. Here’s a detailed table summarizing the key differences:
| Method | Timeframe | Equipment | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air Drying | Several days | Shade or sunny spot | Free, retains nutrients | Requires ample space and time |
| Dehydrator | 12-24 hours | Food dehydrator | Efficient, controlled drying | Requires electricity |
| Oven Drying | 4-8 hours | Oven | Quick, convenient | Can scorch if not monitored closely |
Storing Plums
Plums are a delicious and versatile fruit that can be enjoyed fresh, cooked, or preserved. Here are some tips on how to store plums to keep them fresh and flavorful for as long as possible:
Freezing
Freezing is a great way to preserve plums for long-term storage. Simply wash and pit the plums, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 6 months.
Refrigerating
Plums can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 weeks. Place the plums in a single layer in a plastic bag or container. Do not wash the plums before refrigerating, as this can cause them to spoil more quickly.
Compote and Preserves for Plums
Plums can be used to make a variety of delicious compotes and preserves. Here are a few recipes to get you started:
Plum Compote
Ingredients:
- 1 pound plums, pitted and halved
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the plums, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the plums are soft and the sauce has thickened.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Plum Preserves
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds plums, pitted and halved
- 3 cups sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
- In a large saucepan, combine the plums, sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the plums are soft and the preserves have thickened.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before spooning into jars. Seal the jars and store in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.
Refrigerating Plums
Refrigerating plums is a good short-term storage option, as it can keep them fresh for 3 to 4 days. Place the plums in a plastic bag or container with holes to allow for air circulation. Avoid overcrowding the container, as this can cause bruising.
Freezing Plum Halves
Freezing plum halves is a great way to preserve them for longer-term storage. Cut the plums in half, remove the pits, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for 1 to 2 hours, or until the halves are frozen solid. Transfer the frozen plum halves to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 6 months.
Juicing and Freezing Plum Nectar
Juicing plums is a great way to preserve their flavor and nutrients. To juice plums, wash them well and remove the pits. Then, juice the plums using a juicer. The resulting juice can be frozen for up to 6 months.
Freezing plum nectar creates a concentrated and flavorful plum juice that can be used to make smoothies, cocktails, or desserts. To freeze plum nectar, juice the plums and then pour the juice into ice cube trays. Freeze the juice cubes for 1 to 2 hours, or until they are frozen solid. Transfer the frozen juice cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 6 months.
Here is a table summarizing the different storage methods for plums:
| Storage Method | Storage Time |
|---|---|
| Refrigerating | 3 to 4 days |
| Freezing Plum Halves | Up to 6 months |
| Freezing Plum Juice | Up to 6 months |
| Freezing Plum Nectar | Up to 6 months |
Commercial Storage and Distribution
* Pre-cooling and Storage: After harvesting, plums are pre-cooled to 32-36°F (0-2°C) to remove field heat and slow down ripening. They are then stored in controlled atmosphere (CA) or modified atmosphere (MA) storage facilities at 30-33°F (-1 to 0.5°C) with high relative humidity (90-95%).
* CA or MA Storage: CA storage involves replacing the air in the storage facility with a specific composition of gases, typically 5-8% oxygen, 5-10% carbon dioxide, and 80-85% nitrogen. MA storage, on the other hand, involves modifying the concentration of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the air without complete gas replacement. These methods help extend the storage life of plums by suppressing respiration and ethylene production.
* Ethylene Management: Ethylene is a hormone that promotes ripening in fruits. During storage and distribution, ethylene levels must be controlled to prevent premature ripening. Controlled ripening is achieved by using ethylene absorbers or by exposing plums to low levels of ethylene to initiate uniform ripening.
* Transportation: Plums are typically transported in refrigerated trucks or containers at 32-33°F (-1 to 0.5°C) with high relative humidity (90-95%). Temperature and humidity monitoring systems are used to ensure optimal conditions during transit.
* Retail Storage: At the retail level, plums should be stored in refrigerated display cases at 32-33°F (-1 to 0.5°C) with high relative humidity (90-95%). They should be kept away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
* Recommended Storage Conditions for Different Plum Varieties:
| Variety | Temperature (°F) | Relative Humidity (%) | Storage Duration (weeks) |
|—|—|—|—|
| Santa Rosa | 30-32 | 90-95 | 6-8 |
| Friar | 30-32 | 90-95 | 4-6 |
| Black Beauty | 30-32 | 90-95 | 6-8 |
| Burgundy | 30-32 | 90-95 | 4-6 |
| Queen Anne | 30-32 | 90-95 | 6-8 |
Preserving Plum Flavor and Nutritional Value
1. Proper Refrigeration
Store plums in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer at a temperature between 32-36°F (0-2°C) to extend their shelf life. Avoid storing them in plastic bags, as this can trap moisture and promote spoilage.
2. Choose the Right Variety
Different plum varieties have varying storage requirements. Choose firmer, less ripe plums for longer storage time.
3. Prevent Bruising
Handle plums gently and avoid overpacking them in storage containers. Place a layer of paper towels or newspaper at the bottom of the container to absorb excess moisture.
4. Separate from Ethylene-Producing Fruits
Plums release ethylene gas, which hastens the ripening process of other fruits. Store plums away from ethylene-producing fruits like apples, bananas, and melons to prevent premature spoilage.
5. Use Unripe Plums for Longer Storage
Store unripe plums at room temperature for a few days until they soften slightly. This will allow them to develop their full flavor while extending their shelf life.
6. Freeze for Long-Term Storage
Cut plums into pieces and freeze them in airtight containers for up to 6 months. Thawed plums may lose some texture but will retain their flavor and nutritional value.
7. Make Plum Jam or Preserves
Preserve plums by turning them into jams or preserves. These methods involve adding sugar and boiling the plums, which extends their shelf life while preserving their flavor.
8. Dehydrate Plums
Dehydrating plums creates a sweet, chewy snack that can be stored at room temperature for extended periods. Slice plums thinly and dehydrate them in an oven or a dehydrator.
9. Can Canning Plums
Canning is a reliable method to preserve plums for up to a year. Sterilize canning jars and their lids, then fill them with plums and a sugar-water syrup. Seal the jars and process them in a boiling water bath.
10. Temperature and Humidity Control
Plums thrive in cool, humid environments. Maintaining optimal temperature and humidity levels in storage areas helps preserve their freshness and prevent shriveling. Consider using a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels.
| 32-36°F (0-2°C) | 85-95% |
How to Store Plums
Plums are a delicious and versatile fruit that can be enjoyed fresh, cooked, or dried. However, they are also a delicate fruit that can spoil quickly if not stored properly.
To store plums, it is important to keep them refrigerated. Plums can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. However, it is important to note that plums will ripen more quickly at room temperature. If you want to store plums for longer, you can place them in the freezer. Plums can be frozen for up to six months.
When storing plums, it is important to choose plums that are firm and free of bruises. Avoid plums that are soft or have any signs of mold. To store plums, place them in a single layer in a plastic bag or container. Do not wash the plums before storing them, as this can make them spoil more quickly.
If you are storing plums for longer than a few days, it is a good idea to check them regularly for signs of spoilage. If you notice any plums that are starting to go bad, remove them from the container immediately.
People Also Ask About How To Store Plums
How can I tell if a plum is ripe?
Ripe plums will be soft to the touch and slightly fragrant. The skin of the plum should also be smooth and free of any wrinkles.
How long can I store plums at room temperature?
Plums can be stored at room temperature for up to three days. However, it is important to note that plums will ripen more quickly at room temperature.
Can I freeze plums?
Yes, you can freeze plums. Plums can be frozen for up to six months.
