Position
The tree requires full sun, ideally 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily, to promote healthy growth and fruit development.
Soil
Well-drained, fertile soil; avoid waterlogging. Dig a hole approximately twice as wide as the nursery bag and about the same depth as the root ball. Loosen the surrounding soil to encourage new root growth. Carefully remove the tree from its container without damaging the roots. If the roots are circling around the root ball, gently tease them apart to encourage outward growth.
Place the tree in the centre of the hole so that the top of the root ball sits level with or slightly above the surrounding soil. Do not bury the trunk or graft union. Refill the hole with the original soil, gently firming it around the roots to eliminate air pockets. Avoid adding excessive fertiliser directly into the planting hole.
Refill the hole with the original soil, with a bag of compost, gently firming it around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
Adding half a bag of our Volcanic Rock Dust (R25 per bag) and a bag of Superfrass (R25 per bag) will assist in rapid growth. They also protect the roots from being eaten by insects.
Watering
Too much water can cause root rot, but do not allow the roots to dry out completely.
Fertilising
Apply one teaspoon of our slow-release nitrogen-rich berry/All plant fertiliser every 4 months. The roots will absorb what they need.
Alternatively, apply a balanced fertiliser (such as 10-10-10) in early spring before new growth begins. Thereafter fertilise annually in early spring.
Mulch
Use from 2 to 5 centimetres of pine bark mulch to protect the roots from UV damage and drying out. It retains moisture, and maintains an optimal pH. Do not let the mulch touch the plant stem, as it may cause infection or rot.
Pruning
Prune Swellengrebel peach trees annually to maintain an open center or vase shape, which improves air circulation and sunlight penetration. Prune in late winter to early spring before new growth begins.
Pest and Disease Management
Monitor for common peach pests such as aphids, peach twig borer, and peach tree borer. Use integrated pest management techniques and consider spraying in early spring to control overwintering pests.
Agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM Control ) will assist in either prevention or after the fact. If you already have aphids or mites, wash the vine down with a harsh hosing, and when dry, spray with Neem oil or EM Control. Peach trees need regular spraying before the onset of fruit and immediately after buds turn to small fruit. Continue organic spraying regularly for good-quality peaches.
Thinning Fruit
Thin fruit in early Spring when they are about the size of a dime to promote larger, healthier fruit and prevent branch breakage due to excessive weight.
Harvesting
Swellengrebel peaches are ready for harvest in November/December, depending on your location and local climate. Harvest when the fruit is fully ripe but still firm.
