Tree Spacing for Commercial Peach Trees

Planning and Design

• The goal for successful commercial peach growing is to yield the highest quality peaches for the least production costs. Allow enough room to turn equipment around at the end of the rows. Consider irrigation needs and allow for extra space within the rows for water to spread during dry months. The tree density will also depend on the soil as well as the size of the tree.Soil preparation should include removal of old tree stumps and vegetation.

Spacing

• Calculate the size of the area and how many trees it will accommodate by planning on 12 to 18 feet between trees in a row. This allows for the leaves to grow, producing a canopy that does not tangle. The space between the rows should be 18 to 24 foot. Closer spacing, according to Oklahoma University Cooperative Extension Service, will cause the full growth quicker, but can affect production. The University of Georgia College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences suggests constructing rows to run north to south, which allows sunlight to reach through the canopy. Calculate a row space of 18 feet and in between row space of 18 feet will yield 134 trees. Expect to yield 101 trees from spacing within rows of 18 feet and between rows of 24 feet.

Orchard Floor

• The orchard floor will accommodate equipment and workers so it should remain as flat as possible. Sod within the rows, and aisles between rows that are free of vegetation, will maintain drainage, equipment movement and harvesting easier and quicker. Timing can affect production and sales. Too much drive area can cut down on the number of trees planted. Consider longer rows to eliminate the need for more turning areas.

Planting

• Choose root-stocks that are at least 2 to 4 feet high. Part of the planning should include waiting up to one year for the local nursery to arrange for delivery. Planting should take place during the winter months, starting with December. Prepare holes to accommodate the roots only. Installing a growth plate of aluminum tubing will enhance growth production according to Texas A&M University. It should be installed on the lower part of the tree trunk--18 inches from the bottom. The shield will protect the tree from sunburn, keep lower branches from forming and keep weeds from growing around the trunk.