Today’s guest authors offer a peachy treat (pun intended) for all of us. This great article on how to grow a peach tree comes from true authorities: the Pearson Farm, here in my glorious state of Georgia. So, if you love peaches like the Pearsons and I do, grab a pen, take notes and head out to the nursery.
When it comes to growing a peach tree in your own backyard, the easiest part is finding a seed to plant – because all you have to do is plant the pit found in any peach you eat. After that, the process gets a bit trickier. Peach trees are very susceptible to damage from cold temperatures and often perform better at higher elevations. If you are in a climate that does not get too cold, then consider the following steps before planting your first peach pit:
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Peach Variety: Depending on your region and personal taste preference, certain varieties of peaches may be more suitable than others. For those in slightly cooler climates, hardier peach varieties include Harrow Diamond, Starfire, and Redskin. If you are in a more temperate and warmer climate, then just pick the peach variety that you enjoy the most.
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Soil Type: Peach trees grow the best when in sandy or loamy soils. They can grow reasonably well in other types of soil but the areas needs to be well drained. The approximate ph level of the soil should be between 6.5 and 7.0
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Site Choice: Ideally, peach trees need to be planted in a place that receives full sunlight all day. In addition, peach tree should be spaced 10 to 20 feet away from other plants to allow for adequate root growth.
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Planting Schedule: Peach seeds should be planted in the early fall, as soon as the soil is dry enough to work.
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Planting the Seed: Once you have selected the best site and time of year to plant your seed, you should dig a hole about 3 inches deep for the seed. You do not need to worry about the orientation of the pit as the roots and sprouting top will naturally grow the right direction.
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Wait Patiently for the Spring: Peach trees take time to grow and as such you should be prepared to only see a green sprout come spring time. Typically, it takes about three years for a pit to grow into a fruit bearing tree.
Peach pits are very fickle in nature and the first one you plant may never grow. With that in mind, it is important to plant several different pits in order to put the odds in your favor. Once a pit does sprout, you can check out our article on pruning peach trees in order to keep the tree healthy and shapely while it grows and in turn give it the best chance at producing a successful crop of delicious peaches.
wannitta says
have started a veggie an nw want to try sum fruit trees got very nice siol as i use naturel composit siole.
BlissPlan says
Wannitta, good luck with your fruit trees. I’ve had an apple tree for years although I don’t really take care of it so I don’t eat the apples. Fresh peaches are great.