- 1). Select trees that are bred to be grown in the desert climate native to Arizona. Choosing a tree that requires colder temperatures for extended periods of time than can be provided in Arizona will result in a nonproductive tree. The Florida Prince and Earli Grande varieties are good choices for planting, as they do not require as many cold hours as most peach tree varieties.
- 2). Planting of bare-rooted trees should take place in early winter in January or February when the trees are dormant. Container grown trees should be planted earlier in the fall months. Feed and prune newly planted trees which will allow several months of growth time for the root system. When choosing a location for the peach tree, select an area that will provide plenty of sun. While a peach tree likes a lot of sun, it is also a good idea to plant the tree in a location that will also provide a certain amount of shade during the day. A layer of mulch can be placed around the tree base to help hold in moisture during hot and dormant times of the year.
- 3). Plant the tree in a hole that is deep enough for the roots to have plenty of room to expand and grow. When placing the tree inside the prepared hole, refill the hole with a moist mixture of soil and compost. When the hole is completely filled, create a moat or basin around the perimeter of the tree base for watering purposes. Peach trees need to be watered weekly and deeply so the roots get plenty of moisture and will grow a strong and sturdy root system. During the winter dormant months, the trees do not require as much water. Feed the newly planted trees with quality food that is heavy in nutrients. These vital nutrients will promote growth and budding in the spring when the second pruning of newly planted trees should take place. By encouraging additional growth, the second year should produce a very strong fruit producing tree at harvest time. Begin fertilizing in the second year after harvesting to replenish the tree. After the second year, the tree should be well established and will be need to be pruned only during the winter months when the trees are dormant. Pruning is essential to the health of the tree. Tree branches need to be cut back to promote new branch growth for foliage and blossoms. If not trimmed, the branches will continue to grow longer and longer with the blossoms sprouting further away from the tree trunk, causing the branches to become weighted down and strained.
- 4). Maintain the trees with a year-round feeding schedule. The trees are usually fed every three months with the first feeding beginning in January or February when the tree is first planted, again at the beginning of spring and the last feeding at the end of the season. All feedings play an important role in preparing the tree for the winter, strengthening the tree during the blossoming period and at the end of the season to replenish the tree and promote essential growth prior to the tree going into the dormant season.
- 5). Add to the yearly feeding, fertilizing and pruning regimen a program to address pest and fungus issues that can plague and ultimately destroy your tree if not treated. Maintaining a yearly spraying schedule will help to control the onset of pests and disease. Along with spraying, visually inspect your trees throughout the year to be sure the treatment is working and to address any problems.
- 6). Harvesting of the fruit can range from 2 to 3 months. Keep in mind, once the peaches are picked, they will last for a short period of time. Ripened peaches left on the tree have a longer span of time but will also deteriorate after several weeks. Be prepared to use the fruit in cooking, canning or freezing once the peaches have been harvested.
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