Description
Kakamas Peaches, a yellow cling variety, are highly sought after due to their unique flavor. They are known for their juicy and sweet flesh, making them a popular choice for fresh consumption and for various culinary applications such as desserts, jams, and preserves. The peaches are typically harvested during the summer when they are fully ripe and at their peak flavor.
The flesh of the yellow cling peach tends to cling to the pip, which is great for eating but more difficult to remove from the pip in order to can.
Kakamas is harvested from mid-February.
Position
Peach trees require colder climates and do not do well in warm winter climates. The chill hours are calculated under 7°C in winter. If your peach tree does not receive enough chill hours, its flowers may not open, or they may have only a few flowers that open.
Kakamas peach trees have a medium chilling requirements.
They need full sun. Although they can tolerate some shade, they will yield more fruit the more sun they receive and grow more vigorously.
As they spread blight, tomatoes and potatoes should be kept away from peach trees. Also, avoid planting raspberry bushes near peach trees.
Planting chamomile and comfrey adds nutrients to the soil, serving as a natural fertiliser for peach trees.
Size
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. Plant in a protected area if possible, as strong winds can damage branches and leaves.
Soil Type
Prepare the soil by removing weeds, rocks, and debris. Incorporate organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve soil fertility and drainage. Add one 200-gram Bag of Superfrass added to the soil when planting.
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.
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. Regular irrigation ensures the trees receive adequate moisture, especially during dry periods. Avoid overwatering, as excessively wet soil can lead to root rot.
Pruning
Prune peach trees during the dormant season (late winter or early spring) to remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Also, thin out crowded branches to improve airflow and sunlight penetration, which helps reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
Fertilising
Apply our slow-release Berry/All-plant Fertiliser. For young trees, apply 1 teaspoon every 4-5 months. The roots will absorb what they need.
Alternatively, apply a balanced fertiliser (such as 10-10-10) in early spring before new growth begins. Thereafter fertilise annually in early spring.
Thinning Fruit
Thin fruit in early summer when they are small, to promote larger, healthier fruit and prevent branch breakage due to excessive weight.
Harvesting
Kakamas peaches are harvested when they are fully ripe and have developed their characteristic sweet taste and vibrant colors. Gently twist or lift the fruit to detach it from the branch. Handle the peaches with care to avoid bruising or damaging them.
Post-Harvest Care
Store harvested peaches in a cool, well-ventilated area to maintain quality. Use or process them promptly to make the most of their fresh flavour.
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.
