How to Grow a Peach Tree
Peach trees are hardier than most citrus trees. You can grow them in Zone 5 and warmer climates. After planting your tree either by seedling, bare root or as a container tree, follow these steps to ensure your peach tree produces plenty of delicious peaches year after year. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Stake your new peach tree once you plant it and it reaches a foot. Once established, it should grow quickly. Staking prevents it from growing at an angle and from root damage from high winds.
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Fertilize your tree using fertilizer spikes to boost its growth. Spikes slowly release a fertilizer specifically geared for fruit trees.
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Apply one to two pounds of fertilizer to a peach tree that is 4 or more years old twice a year. For best results apply it in March and again in May.
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Maximize the quality and size of peaches on your tree. The more peaches on a tree, the smaller each peach grows. After a few years, you'll recognize your ideal peach size. By removing a few baby peaches in early season, the ones left on the tree grow larger.
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Remove any peaches damaged by insects. Again, this leaves room for existing peaches to grow larger.
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Apply a dormant oil fruit tree spray before buds open each spring to kill a wide array of insects.
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Pick peaches before they are fully ripe, as they soften and ripen quickly after picking. Store the peaches in a dry, dark, cool place.
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Tips & Warnings
Peach trees are prone to disease and insect infestations. Spray twice a year for both, following the directions on product labels.
Attach pest netting to your peach tree to deter birds from pecking at the fruit.
Wear protective clothing when you spray.
