White Peach

Growing

When planting white peach trees in early winter, choose a location with full sun and a layout that promotes airflow to help regulate the tree's thermal environment. In a container, keep the soil well-drained with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. These trees survive hard freezes, but they are susceptible to leaf curl, a disease that can cause defoliation and reduce yield. Manage it with copper-based products or other fungicides. Check the bark and branches for scale insects, such as San Jose scale, which can cause damage.

Thin the peaches midway through the growing season; too many fruits on a single branch often result in undersized peaches that lack concentrated flavor. Depending on the variety, the flesh may be freestone, which separates easily from the pit and is good for eating fresh, or clingstone, which is better for canning. As harvest approaches, water more often so the fruit develops properly.

Eat the fruit as soon as it ripens on the tree for the best flavor, as peaches bruise easily and do not store well at room temperature. Extra fruit can be blanched before freezing for later use. The large, stony seeds are toxic and should be handled with care.