peach tree

Peach trees offer beautiful spring flowers and sweet, juicy fruit typically ripening in mid to late summer. Most peach trees grow 12–15 feet tall and wide, with a rounded, open canopy that benefits from regular pruning. Unlike apples, most peach varieties are self-pollinating, so you only need one tree to produce fruit. However, planting more than one can improve yields. Peach trees need full sun, well-drained soil, and  plenty of space for good air circulation to help prevent disease. Protection from late spring frosts is also beneficial to prevent damage to buds. Peach trees grow quickly and often begin bearing fruit in just 2 to 4 years. Prune annually in late winter to maintain an open shape and encourage productive new growth. In early summer, thin fruit to reduce strain on branches and improve fruit size and quality.

The best way to control reoccurring insect and disease problems on fruiting trees and shrubs is with a treatment schedule, starting as early as March. Learn more about a fruit tree treatment schedule. View our online selection of peach tree varieties available now.

Plant in well-drained, nutrient rich, amended soil. Water well after planting; maintain 1” of water once a week the first year. Prune in late winter to control size and form or after flowering. Remove dead or damaged stems at any time. Feed at least twice during the growing season with a slow release fertilizer in early spring and again mid-summer. Follow label instructions. Mulch 2″ to suppress weeds, retain moisture and protect against extremes of soil temperature. A regular spraying schedule to reduce insects and disease is recommended.