Peaches
Emilee
Growth of Peaches
Things to consider when growing peaches-
- Sun- The trees grow best in 6 hours of full sun.
- Soil- Slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0-6.5 is preferred. Sandy loam soil with good drainage is perfect.
- Water-The young trees require the most water. Without much water the trees will still produce but will be stressed and produce small peaches.
- Climate-They thrive in climates where temps during winter reach 45 degrees for 600-900 hours during winter. Summer temps around 75 degrees make the best conditions for growing.
- Spacing- Trees with a mature height of 25 feet grow best with 20 feet of space.
Anatomy of the Peach
Seed
Pericarp
Diagram
Stage 1
Stage 2
Stage 3
Harvesting
Jacket Rot
Peach Twig Borer
Scab
Treatments for Pests
- One fungicide application at full bloom.
Peach Twig Borer-
- Biological- Grey field ant.
- Insecticides at full bloom
Scab-
- Applications of fungicide within 3 weeks after full bloom.
- If the previous year was really severe, again at 5 weeks.
Uses for Peaches
- Canned
- Fresh
- Frozen
- Smoothies
- Pies
- Salsa
- Juice
Fun Facts!
1. Peaches are grown commercially in 28 states. The top four peach-producing states are California, South Carolina, Georgia and New Jersey. California produces both fresh and processed peaches, whereas South Carolina and Georgia produce mainly fresh peaches.
2. According to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, in 2010, roughly 80 percent of processed peaches were canned and 16 percent were frozen.
3. Fresh market peaches are available from May through September.
4. The peach is a member of the rose family, and there are over 700 varieties of the fruit.
5. A large peach has fewer than 70 calories and contains 3 grams of fiber. It’s also a good source of vitamins A and C.
Two Facts to Remember
2. Peaches are a close relative of Almonds.