Almost everyone enjoys a tree-ripened peach, picked fresh from the orchard. Sweet, firm but juicy, with those sweet juices dripping down your chin and hands as you enjoy each delectable bite. Peaches are truly a superior fruit and a great addition to any backyard or orchard.
Probably the greatest drawback of peaches though, is the possibility of an early spring freeze-out of the buds after bloom. Peaches break dormancy as soon as warm weather presents itself. The emerging buds become subject to freezing if a subsequent cold snap occurs. In southeastern Indiana it is not uncommon to experience cold snaps following bloom. We have suffered losses of our peach crop numerous times.
Peaches are self pollinating. A single tree will bear fruit under the right conditions. Soil conditions are critical to peach tree growth and production. Peach trees do not do well in wet areas so it is advisable to avoid wet areas or prepare problem planting sites by berming. Poor drainage and excess water can potentially “drown” your trees.
Best time for planting is during complete dormancy when the peach tree is not actively growing. Dormant bare root trees placed in topsoil have an advantage over those that are potted or in a balled peat mixture. In dry weather the “ball” tends to dry out and in a wet season the “ball” becomes saturated and acts like sponge drowning the root growth. Balling or potting trees is used as a method of maintaining shelf life of trees in garden centers and nursery outlets. Neither process is considered long term.
Prepare the site before planting by working the soil with a spade or plow. Remove sod, weeds and grasses. This is done so the newly planted tree has no competition for soil nutrients or water. Dig a hole large and deep enough to accommodate the spreading feeder roots. Cramping the roots will hinder growth and cause the tree to not anchor itself. Set the tree in the hole, spread the roots, cover the roots with topsoil, tamping as you go. Make sure no air pockets remain and all the roots have contact with the soil. The graft union should be about 2″ above the soil level. Support the newly planted tree with a stake. If a dry period occurs after planing, water the tree. Fruit trees do not like “wet feet,” so do not over water. A good soaking rain will relieve any need for watering.
Planting success depends on your soil, If the soil is fertile and well-drained, it can support any kind of fruit planting. Clay and soggy soils can be problematic. “Ridging, mounding or berming” the planting area slightly higher than between the rows is beneficial.
Peaches always present a challenge to the backyard producer as well as the experienced orchardist. Weather and soil are just a few of the issues that arise. There are many other factors involved in getting that delectable peach from the tree to your table. Just the thought of picking that fresh peach, however, makes the challenges worthwhile.