Position – Full sun, although they can tolerate some shade they will yield more fruit the more sun they receive and grow more vigorously. Earligrande peach trees thrive in regions with moderate winter chilling hours.
Size – Peach trees grow to anything from 4 metres plus tall and wide. Provide adequate spacing between Earligrande peach trees, typically about 5 metres apart, to allow for proper air circulation and future growth. If you are planting multiple trees, ensure there is enough distance between them to accommodate their mature size.
Soil Type – Peach trees are not fussy about soil type but prefer slightly acidic soil. Loosen the soil in the area before planting about 1.5mts depth in your normal garden soil, and good drainage is important.
Mulch – Add a thick layer of pine-bark mulch, keeping about 20-30 cm away from the tree trunk. This will keep the soil moist and keep the weeds at bay.
Watering – Proper irrigation is essential for establishing and growing Earligrande peach trees. Water newly planted trees thoroughly and provide regular watering during dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
Pruning – Prune peach trees during the dormant season (late winter or early spring) to remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Also, thin out crowded branches to improve airflow and sunlight penetration, which helps reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
Fertilising – Apply a balanced fertiliser formulated for fruit trees in early spring before new growth begins. One 200-gram Bag of Superfrass added to the soil every 4-6 months works well. Talborne Fruit & Flower or nourish liquid are also options. Avoid over-fertilisation, as it can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production.
Pest and Disease Control – Monitor the tree regularly for common peach tree pests such as aphids, peach tree borers, and fruit flies. Use organic pest control methods; EM Control is a reasonable and efficient option. Implement proper sanitation practices, such as removing fallen leaves and fruit, to reduce the risk of diseases like peach leaf curl or brown rot.
Harvesting – Earligrande peaches should be harvested when they have reached their full color and are slightly soft to the touch in October. The peaches will easily detach from the tree with a gentle twist or lift. It’s important to handle them carefully to avoid bruising.
