Peach Trees

Although peaches originate from sunnier climes, thanks to new, hardier varieties being bred, it’s now possible to grow peaches successfully in the UK. Our growers have put together a guide to choosing the best peach tree for your area.

Bare root peach trees should be planted between November and April, when they’re in their dormant phase. Potted peach trees can be planted at any time of year, as long as the ground isn’t waterlogged or frozen over. Early spring is the best time, as this allows the tree to establish a good root system before the growing season.

Peach trees do best in a sunny, sheltered spot with well drained soil. South-facing walls or fences are a good place to plant, as they can provide extra warmth and protection from cold winds. Patio peach trees can also be planted in pots and grown outdoors or in a conservatory or greenhouse.

Full size peach trees should be planted about 4-6m apart to allow for good air circulation and so they can spread out to their mature size. Patio varieties will vary - check on the individual variety page before choosing yours.

Not especially - they prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil with good drainage. If your soil is heavy clay or alkaline, you can improve it by mixing in lots of compost or well-rotted manure.

Water your peach tree regularly when it’s newly planted, and especially during dry spells. Once it’s established (after a year or two), water it deeply once a week during the growing season, but avoid overwatering, and stop altogether during autumn and winter.

Peach trees will flower and fruit best with a bit of fertiliser. Apply a fruit tree fertiliser or general purpose plant food in early spring, before the blossom starts to appear.

Peach trees need to be protected from late spring frosts, which can damage the blossoms and result in a smaller crop. You can bring potted trees indoors, or wrap trees in the ground with horticultural fleece or bubble wrap.

Prune your peach tree in late winter or early spring before the new growth starts. Remove any dead or diseased wood, thin out crowded or crossing branches and give it a light trim if necessary, to keep it well shaped and fitting its space.

Peach trees usually take around two years to produce fruit. Harvest times vary according to the variety and local conditions, but peach trees can fruit at any time from late summer to early autumn. Pick your peaches when they’re fully ripe and give slightly when squeezed.

There are lots of great patio sized peach trees which are great for containers. Choose a large pot with good drainage holes and fill it with good quality compost. Position your pot in a sunny place, feed and water it regularly and prune it yearly to keep it to the size you want it.