How to Plant Contender Peach Tree

Planting a contender peach tree in your garden can give you a great source of fresh peaches every year. While planting a fruit tree may seem overwhelming, this guide will help you successfully plant a contender peach tree with minimal fuss. Here are the steps you need to follow:

Step 1: Choose a Location

When choosing a site for planting the contender peach tree, make sure that it gets at least six hours of direct sunlight every day. The soil should be well-draining and loamy, with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. Avoid planting in low areas where water accumulates as it can damage the roots.

Step 2: Dig a Hole

Dig a hole in the ground that is two to three times wider than the rootball of the tree. The hole should be deep enough so that the rootball sits level with the surrounding soil. Add some organic matter to the soil to improve drainage and fertility. Mix in some compost or aged manure into the soil.

Step 3: Plant the Tree

Place the rootball in the hole so that the top of the rootball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole with the amended soil and press it down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the tree thoroughly and add a layer of mulch to retain moisture.

Step 4: Water and Fertilize

Water the tree regularly, especially during the first few months after planting. Keep the soil moist but not soaked. Fertilize the tree in the spring after the last frost. Use a balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Step 5: Prune

Prune the tree in the late winter or early spring before the new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged branches and cut out any suckers that grow from the base of the tree. Shape the tree by cutting back the previous year's growth by one-third.

Step 6: Pest and Disease Control

Monitor the tree for any signs of pests or diseases. Use an insecticide if needed to control pests such as aphids or spider mites. If the tree becomes infected with a disease such as peach scab or brown rot, use a fungicide to treat it.

Follow these steps, and you will see your contender peach tree thrive and bear abundant fruit.