Do Peach Trees Need to Be Planted in Pairs?

Peach trees do not necessarily need to be planted in pairs.

The decision to add a peach tree to your landscape is a big one. Some spaces may not allow for two trees, making it important to know if the peach tree you want to plant needs a second tree. The answer lies in the purpose and the cultivar of tree you are planting.

Simple Answer

The truth of the matter is nearly all peach trees are self-pollinating. All but a few varieties are capable of producing fruit without a second tree in the area.

Complicated Answer

A second tree is optional. While they are capable of self-pollination, many varieties produce a better crop of fruit when they are cross pollinated. Some varieties including J. H. Hale, Candoka, Mikado and Earlihale require cross-pollination, meaning a second tree is required.

Considerations

While a second tree enhances fruit production, space may not permit a second tree. If fruit is the desired goal, you can plant a self-pollinator. If aesthetics are the motivating factor, flowering trees do not need to be pollinated to produce flowers.

References

• Colorado State University Extension: Pollination of Tree Fruits

Resources

• Ohio State University Extension: Growing Peaches in the Home Landscape