'Rochester' Peach Tree

Shows good resistance to the main pest and diseases for peaches. Has a good resistance to peach leaf curl, although not full resistance so you should still keep an eye out for it and take the pruning steps below. You may see some damage from aphids and caterpillars, which can both be washed away with soapy water. Reduce the risk of bacterial canker by pruning to improve airflow and removed rotting organic matter nearby.

Water in thoroughly when planting. For bare root trees, you won't need to water regularly going forward, oly water in dry spells when needed. You should be able tell because the leaves will start to wilt and droop. If a container grown tree, it will need more watering until its roots are established. It should be watered every other day or so for the first few months. Then reduce to twice a week until autumn. In the second year it should have a established enough root system to support itself, just water when required as explained above for bare roots. When watering a tree it is important to give a good soaking. It is better to water heavy and less frequently than little and often as this encourages the roots to grow down into the ground.

Best planted in a sheltered spot where the tree will enjoy direct sun for more than 6 hours each day during the spring/summer.

Will tolerate less than perfect conditions but prefers well drained, loamy soils. If your soil is heavy or sandy, mix in some perlite or fine horticultural grit when planting, to improve drainage.

Peach trees get all the nutrients they need from the soil - if yours is poor quality, mix in some compost when planting.