Propagation of Peach Trees

Propagation Considerations

• Though you can plant the pit of a peach you have eaten, the fruit of that tree might not taste or look like the peach you started with. A peach seed comes from the exchange of pollen from one peach blossom to another, sometimes from different trees. The resulting offspring inherits characteristics of both parents, which don't necessarily transfer to the next generation of fruit. For this reason, it's usually better to plant a budded tree rather than a seed. A budded tree is an offshoot of a mature tree and bears the same quality fruit as the tree from which it was produced. Always purchase a budded tree from a reputable vendor. Medium-size, dormant trees usually provide the best results.

Soil Selection

• Although peach trees can tolerate a variety of soil conditions, well-drained soil is a must. The ideal soil has a pH level of 6.5 and is free of weeds. Position trees in a location with full sunlight. Peach trees prefer warm weather; temperatures below freezing can harm them.

Planting

• Plant young peach trees in the spring in mid-April or May, once the ground is workable. Trees should be in the ground before their blossoms break, so as not to affect fruit production. Dig a wide hole that provides room for roots to establish. Allow 12 to 15 feet of space between each tree for spread. Fertilize peach trees approximately three weeks after you plant them, with a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium (NPK) 10-10-10. Use about 1/2 lb. of fertilizer per tree, applied in a circle that extends up to 20 inches from the tree's base.

Pruning

• Once planted, cut back peach trees to a height of 26 to 30 inches. Remove all branches except for a single shoot or whip. This helps ensure the tree's uniform shape as it grows and develops. Periodically inspect the tree and prune away broken or decayed branches. Fruit is often ready for harvest within 60 days after pollination and, depending on the variety, starts appearing in mid-spring to late fall. Thinning branches of fruit helps increase the quality and size of the peaches.