Peach cultivation plays a vital role in China's fruit industry. However, improper planting and management practices often lead to delayed fruiting, poor quality, and difficulties in marketability. Through years of hands-on experience, the author has developed effective techniques to promote early fruiting and improve yield and quality. Here are the key strategies.
First, planting is crucial. Peach trees should be planted on elevated, well-drained land. The planting density depends on the system: 80 or fewer trees per mu for a happy-shape layout, 80-110 trees per mu for a herringbone pattern, and over 200 trees per mu in greenhouses. Although peaches can self-pollinate, cross-pollination significantly increases yield. Therefore, it's recommended to plant pollinator trees at a ratio of 40:1 or higher.
Fertilization is another important aspect. Before planting, dig trenches or holes and mix 3,000–5,000 kg of organic manure with 50 kg of phosphate fertilizer. After mixing with soil, apply lime sulfur solution, water the plants, and cover with mulch to reduce moisture loss. Once new shoots grow over 100 cm, start top-dressing with urea (1–1.5 grams per tree) monthly to encourage vigorous growth. Applying nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers before flower bud differentiation helps promote better buds. Spraying 0.3% urea on leaves from late June to early July enhances flower bud formation, while applying 0.5% potassium dihydrogen phosphate after the hardening stage improves fruit sweetness, color, and overall quality.
Watering and drainage are also essential. While peach trees tolerate drought, they require consistent moisture during critical growth stages such as sprouting, flowering, and fruit development. Irrigation should occur before germination, after flowering, and at the beginning of the hard core stage. In autumn, avoid irrigation, but light watering in early winter can help prepare the trees for dormancy.
Leaf protection is necessary to prevent pests like aphids, bacterial spot, and spider mites. Using products such as Pyrrazine, Zhongshengmycin, and Tinyazine is effective. Adding 0.3% photosynthetic fertilizer during spraying helps maintain healthy foliage.
Pruning is key to shaping the tree and promoting early fruiting. When new shoots reach 25 cm, pinch the tip to encourage branching. When main shoots grow to 60 cm, repeat the process to stimulate secondary and tertiary branches. Remove dense branches and buds promptly to improve air circulation and light penetration.
Flower bud induction is another critical step. Peach flower buds typically begin to form in mid-to-late July. Slowing shoot growth promotes better bud differentiation. In northern regions, applying 15% paclobutrazol three times in early and mid-July (at 300x, 200x, and 150x concentrations) helps control shoot growth. The goal is to stop all new growth by mid-August. If some shoots continue to grow, additional applications at higher concentrations may be needed.
During the growing season, excessive soil moisture can cause root rot and hinder growth. Ensure proper drainage, especially during rainy periods, to prevent waterlogging that could kill entire orchards.
Seasonal pruning is essential for early fruiting. After spring pruning, remove young shoots from cut areas. In mid-May and late June, prune main shoots to control density. Thin out inner branches and remove crowded ones. Before flower bud differentiation (around July), focus on improving light exposure. In August, pinch back any non-dormant shoots to encourage flower bud formation.
After leaf fall and before the next growing season, apply base fertilizer and pour frozen water. Winter pruning should focus on removing dense branches without short cutting. Spring shearing should be done carefully. Apply 3–5-degree lime sulfur solution to the trees during winter to prevent diseases.
By combining these practices, growers can achieve earlier fruiting, higher yields, and better-quality peaches. Consistent and timely management is the key to success.
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