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Answer

Irregular soil moisture levels is the most common reason fruit will split or crack while still on the tree. Periods of drought followed excessive irrigation or rainfall often cause plums to split because the fruit will absorb water faster than it is able to expand. Constant over watering will also cause the fruit to split.

Young fruit trees that have been over fertilized may also have fruit that splits or cracks from the irregular growth patters brought on by the fertilizing, this is less common with established fruit trees.

Damage from insects with piercing sucking mouth parts may also cause blemishes and like cracks and scabs, however more of an imperfection and less of an obvious cracking.

Happy Gardening!

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