Peach
Scientific Name: Prunus persica
Description
The peach is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. Known for its soft, juicy flesh and a fuzzy exterior, peaches are a popular fruit. The tree can reach heights of 15 to 25 feet and is adorned with beautiful pink or white flowers in spring, followed by the characteristic round fruit which can vary in color from yellow to red.
Where it Grows
- United States
- China
- Italy
- Spain
- Greece
Planting
When
Peach trees are best planted in the spring or fall, after the danger of frost has passed but before the growing season begins.
How
- Site Selection: Choose a location with full sun and well-drained soil.
- Soil Preparation: Amend soil with compost to improve fertility and drainage.
- Planting: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, ensuring the graft point is at soil level.
Care
Watering
Water peach trees deeply once a week, more frequently during dry spells. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Thinning
Thin fruit when they are about the size of a marble, leaving 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) between each fruit to promote larger fruit size.
Weeding
Keep the area around the peach tree free of weeds, as they compete for nutrients and water. Use mulch to suppress weed growth.
Mulching
Apply a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch to retain moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds.
Fertilizing
Fertilize peach trees in early spring with a balanced fertilizer, following package instructions for quantities based on tree age.
Pest Management
Monitor for common pests such as aphids and peach tree borers. Use insecticidal soap or pheromone traps as needed.
Harvesting
Harvest peaches when they are slightly soft to the touch and their color has fully developed, typically in mid to late summer.
Common Problems
- Brown rot
- Leaf curl
- Peach scab
- Bacterial spot
Nutrition
Nutritional Benefits
Peaches are low in calories and high in vitamins A and C. They also contain beneficial antioxidants and fiber.
Nutritional Composition (per 100g)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 39 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Protein | 0.9 g |
| Fat | 0.3 g |
| Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Vitamin C | 6.6 mg |
| Vitamin A | 489 IU |
Varieties of Peach
- Clingstone
- Free-stone
- Yellow-fleshed
- White-fleshed
- Donut peach (flat peach)
Health Benefits
- Supports skin health due to high vitamin C levels.
- Aids digestion with dietary fiber.
- Contains antioxidants that may help combat oxidative stress.
Fun Facts
- Peaches are often referred to as "stone fruits" due to the hard pit inside.
- The peach tree is native to China, where it has been cultivated for thousands of years.
- The largest producer of peaches is China, contributing over half of the world�s supply.