How to Plant a Contender Peach Tree

Contender peaches are a great addition to any garden or orchard. They are self-pollinating, which means you don't need to plant two trees to get fruit. They also have a low chilling requirement, which means they can grow in areas with mild winters. Here are some tips on how to plant a contender peach tree.

1. Choose the right location

Contender peach trees thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. Choose a location in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Avoid planting your tree in areas with poor drainage or where water tends to pool.

It's also important to make sure that the soil in the planting location is well-drained. If your soil is heavy with clay, add some sand or other organic matter to improve drainage.

2. Prepare the soil

Before planting your contender peach tree, it's important to prepare the soil. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root system of your tree and about as deep as the root ball. Loosen the soil at the bottom of the hole with a garden fork to help roots penetrate deeper into the soil.

You can also add some compost or other organic matter to the soil in the hole to improve soil fertility and moisture retention.

3. Plant the tree

Place the tree in the hole and spread the roots out. Make sure the graft union (the swollen area where the rootstock and scion were joined) is at least 2 inches above the soil line. Backfill the hole with soil and tamp it down lightly to remove any air pockets around the roots.

Water the tree thoroughly, and add a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture and suppress weed growth. Keep the mulch several inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.

4. Provide care and maintenance

Regular care and maintenance are important to ensure the healthy growth and fruit production of your contender peach tree. Here are some tips:

Water regularly: Keep the soil around your tree moist but not waterlogged. Deep watering once a week is usually sufficient.

Prune regularly: Prune your tree in late winter or early spring to remove dead or diseased wood, and shape the tree to encourage healthy growth.

Fertilize: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer to ensure adequate nutrients for fruit production.

Protect from pests: Keep an eye out for common peach tree pests, such as aphids and scale insects, and treat as necessary.

Harvest fruit: Contender peaches are usually ready for harvest in mid to late summer. Pick fruit when it is fully ripe to ensure the best flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Planting a contender peach tree is easy with the right preparation and care. Choose the right location, prepare the soil, plant the tree, and provide regular care and maintenance to ensure healthy growth and fruit production. With proper care, your contender peach tree will produce delicious and juicy peaches for years to come.