How to Grow Peach Trees from Seed

Growing peaches from pits will produce a fruit-bearing tree in 3 years. These rapid growers are ideal for backyards, both for the fruit they produce and for the attractive display of peach blossoms in early spring. Although growing the seed will require stratification in the refrigerator or other area below 40 degrees F, peach seeds are easy to sprout and, once established, grow quickly, producing 10- to 20-foot trees at maturity.

Things You'll Need

• Peach pit Potting soil Mulch

Instructions

1. Choose a ripe peach and remove the seed. Peaches that are still firm, with a pit that clings securely to the fruit, may not be ripe enough for the pit to germinate. You will need a soft juicy peach that has ripened fully before harvesting. The pit should pull away from the fruit easily. Wash the pit to remove any traces of fruit and set aside to dry for several days.

2. Remove the hard outer shell of the seed by cracking with vise grips or pliers. Once you crack the shell, you may be able to insert the edge of a knife or skewer into the crack and pry it open. Grip in a nutcracker to open completely, if necessary. Crack with a hammer by holding the pit on the side and tapping with the hammer. Use caution not to split the shell and crush the seed in the process. Discard the outer shell. The inner nut meat should resemble an almond and should be firm and white.

3. Soak the seed in tepid water for 24 hours. Fill a glass jar with moist potting soil and plant the seed. Cover tightly and place in the refrigerator or a cool area that maintains a temperature of 35 to 40 degrees F. Check the seed by watching for roots to form in the soil. Fine white roots will be visible through the jar.

4. Remove from the refrigerator about 4 weeks prior to planting if you intend to grow your peach tree outside. Pot in a suitable container and place in a sunny window. Houseplants can be started at any time once the roots have begun to form.

5. Plant in an area that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight a day, but avoid southern exposures. Too much warmth from the sun early in the spring may cause the peach tree to bloom before the last spring frost that will kill off the blooms.

6. Select an area that has well-drained soil and a neutral pH. Amend the soil with well-composted manure to improve the soil texture and drainage. Mulch around the base of the tree with several inches of leaves or straw. Avoid placing mulch too close to the stalk of the tree, as this may cause the trunk to rot.

Tips & Warnings

• Peach pits are poisonous.