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Peach

Prunus persica

Fruit

Peach trees are warm-climate stone fruits that produce luscious, fragrant fruit and are largely self-fertile. They fruit on the previous year's growth, so annual pruning is essential to maintain production.

Growing Conditions

Sunlight

Full Sun

Water Needs

Moderate

Soil

Well-draining, fertile loam; pH 6.0–6.8

Spacing

15–20 feet

Days to Maturity

2–4 years to first significant harvest

Growing Zones

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13

Thrives in USDA Zones 5–9

Companion Planting

Good Companions

Keep Away From

No known antagonists

When to Plant

  • Transplant

    Bare-root trees in late winter while dormant

  • Harvest

    When fruit gives slightly to pressure and smells fragrant; early morning harvest is best

Organic Growing Tips

  • Apply copper-based spray in autumn and again in late winter to prevent peach leaf curl.

  • Plant a guild of comfrey, yarrow, and chives around the base to suppress weeds and attract beneficials.

  • Thin fruit to 6-inch spacing when pea-sized to ensure larger, higher-quality peaches.

  • Prune annually in late winter to keep the centre open and maintain fruiting wood.

Common Pests

  • Peach Leaf Curl
  • Aphids
  • Scale
  • Oriental Fruit Moth
  • Brown Rot

All pest management in Garden uses safe, organic, non-toxic methods only. No synthetic pesticides, ever.