Position – Novadonna peach trees require total sun exposure, so select a planting location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. The soil should be well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
Size – Novadonna peach trees grow to a height of about four mts with a spread of about four mts.
Soil Type – Loosen the soil in the area before planting about 1.5mts depth in your regular garden soil. Good drainage is essential. Place the tree in the hole, ensuring the graft union (the swollen area where the tree is grafted onto the rootstock) is above the soil line. Backfill the hole with soil and tamp it gently to remove air pockets. Peach trees are not fussy about soil type, although they prefer slightly acidic soil.
Mulch – Add a thick layer of pine-bark mulch, keeping about 20-30 cm away from the tree trunk. Mulch will keep the soil moist and keep the weeds at bay.
Watering – Provide adequate water to your Novadonna peach tree, especially during the first few years of growth. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between watering sessions. 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 – Novadonna peaches are ready for harvest in mid to late summer, depending on your specific climate. When gently pressed, the fruit should have a slight give and easily separate from the tree. Harvest the peaches gently to avoid damaging them.
