Description
The De Wet Peach is a Cling with red flesh around the pip and mostly red skin. The flesh tends to soften at the point. It is also known as a Yellow Dessert Peach and produces medium size peaches.
Strong, vigorous grower with low chilling requirement.
Peach trees are are self-fertile so fruit well from a single tree. De Wet is harvested at the end of October.
Position
Peach trees require a cold winter with a certain number of hours below 7°. Full sun; although they can tolerate some shade, they will yield more fruit the more sun they receive and grow more vigorously.
Tomatoes and potatoes should be kept away from peach trees, as they spread blight. Also, avoid planting raspberry bushes near peach trees. However, planting chamomile and comfrey adds nutrients to the soil, serving as a natural fertiliser for peach trees.
Watering
Water every second day after transplanting for about a week; thereafter, reduce to twice a week in dry or hot weather for the next 2-3 months.
Water every couple of weeks if there is no rain. Too much water can cause root rot but do not allow the roots to dry out completely.
Size
De Wet Peach trees can grow to about 8-10 metres tall. Plan the site before planting, keeping the tree away from external walls, electrical lines, and other trees. If possible, plant in a protected area as strong winds can damage branches and leaves.
Soil Type
Peach trees are not fussy about soil type but prefer slightly acidic soil. Loosen the soil in the area before planting about 1.5mts depth in your normal garden soil, and good drainage is important.
Mulch
Use from 2 to 5 centimetres of pine bark mulch to protect the roots from UV damage and drying out. It retains moisture, and maintains an optimal pH. Do not let the mulch touch the plant stem, as it may cause infection or rot.
Thinning Fruit
Thin fruit in early summer when they are small to promote larger, healthier fruit and prevent branch breakage due to excessive weight.
Pest and Disease Management
For good-quality fruit, Peach trees need regular spraying before the onset of fruit and immediately after buds turn to small fruit. Regularly inspect the tree for signs of pests such as aphids, scale insects, fruit fly and peach tree borers.
They can be susceptible to diseases such as peach powdery mildew, leaf curl and brown rot. Use organic products to control as needed and practice good garden hygiene by removing fallen fruit from the soil beneath the tree.
We recommend Effective Microorganisms (EM Control) and organic Neem Oil to prevent and control the spread of these pests and diseases.
EM Control puts you firmly on the green path when using it in your garden. EM is certified organic, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly. Because EM boosts the soil, your garden will flourish without the use of any chemicals. The soil’s vitality equals the vitality of the plants and fruits they produce. EM is a biocontrol measure, controlling pests by releasing microorganisms into the soil. With EM, pests and pathogens are controlled or suppressed by means of natural processes.
Agricultural Neem Oil is a powerful oil that is kind to your garden, fighting against even the most challenging infestations. Our Neem oil is an agricultural grade and is highly effective in controlling roughly 600 different types of insects! Targeted at insects that suck and chew leaves, it doesn’t extend its damage to the rest of the plant or its surrounds. It is Biodegradable, cold pressed and 100% organic.
