KW: how to grow peaches, growing peaches UK, how to grow peach tree from seed, how to plant a peach tree, can you grow peaches in the UK
More of a summer fruit, peaches are a sweet, juicy snack but also a hugely versatile ingredient for many meals. To some this may be a surprise, but growing peaches in the UK is entirely possible under the right growing conditions.
Experience farm-to-table produce, and grow your own peaches this year! While they take time and effort, the reward at the end is like nothing else. Whether you’re a beginner when it comes to growing fruit, or you’d like some tips on how to keep pests at bay, you’re in the right place!
Read our guide on how to grow a peach tree from seed and let us know how it goes!
Let’s start by answering a very common question on our platform - ‘Can you grow peaches in the UK?’.
As mentioned above, the answer is yes, growing peaches in the UK is possible. Although peaches generally grow in warmer, Asiatic climates, certain varieties of peaches like Peregrine and Rochester are best suited for our colder, more unpredictable climate.
Growing peaches in the UK yields best results when the temperature is moderate, so perhaps if you’re based in North England, growing peaches outdoors may not be the wisest decision. With a greenhouse however, your peaches will be just fine in the early stages of its life. If cold weather and frost is a concern, another option is growing your peaches in pots so you can bring them indoors when the weather gets too cold.
You can grow a peach tree from the stone or pit you find inside the fruit after you’ve eaten. However, it’s not as easy as this if you’re growing in the UK. Most of the peaches we buy in our supermarkets are imported and aren’t suited for our local climate, therefore may not survive.
If you’re set on growing peaches from seed, then you need to wash the stone, wrap it in a damp cotton cloth and place it in the fridge for eight weeks.
Take out the seed and place it in a container with soil, fertilisers and mulch. Cover it with a light layer of soil and water it regularly. Keep it in a sunny, sheltered spot. Once you notice buds appearing, harden it off in the container for a few weeks before transplanting in a bigger container or out in your garden. It’s worth noting though that it can take up to three years for the peach tree to mature and bear fruit.
The best solution for growing peaches in the UK is to start with a bare-root peach tree from a local nursery. They are usually available between November and March.
If you’re wondering how to grow peaches, then the first thing you need to do is choose the right spot. Peach trees like a sunny and sheltered spot; ideally south-facing. You should have free-draining soil that can hold moisture during the summer months while preventing water stagnation during winter. Peach trees can be grown in the soil or in containers.
They can also be grown in an unheated greenhouse as they do need a period of dormancy.
To grow peaches in a container it’s best to choose the dwarf variant. Like nectarines, peach trees can be fan-trained to grow against a wall, this can help to absorb the heat from the wall during the colder months.
Peach trees are similar to nectarines in both appearance and taste, although Nectarines can be a bit more difficult to cultivate.
Peach trees that are dormant bare-roots can be planted in autumn to early spring. Container grown peaches can be planted at any time, but it is best to avoid planting during summer as it will require a tremendous amount of watering.
Plant the peach tree in well-drained soil and add mulch to retain moisture and suppress the weeds. It is best to add mulch once a year during spring or autumn. Water regularly until the tree is established, and container grown trees - will require watering more frequently. However, do not let peach trees become water-logged, which will cause root rot.
Peach trees will require protection from frosts when it is blossoming to ensure they bear fruit. It’s good practice to cover peach trees with a layer of horticulture fleece at night and to take the potted plants indoors.
When the fruit starts to appear, thin it out so that the remaining fruit can mature into a proper size. Prune your peach trees in the summer, after you’ve plucked the ripe fruits as this can help prevent diseases such as canker and silver leaf.
As peaches flower earlier than other plants and since they are mostly kept covered or indoors for warmth, pollination can be difficult. You can expedite the process, by taking a soft brush and mixing the pollens among different flowers.
Peaches are ready to harvest between July - August when they have coloured and feel soft. They will gently pull off the stem. Ripening fruits will also need protection from birds and squirrels.
Peaches can be enjoyed fresh and cooked in desserts.
Some common problems with growing peaches are:
Whether you’re an amateur gardener or a seasoned allotment grower, Allotment Online is the perfect place to share your stories. If you’re looking for some support with growing nectarines, apples or raspberries we have useful tips. Alternatively, head to our Grow Your Own pages for other tips on growing fruit, veg, nuts and herbs!
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