Description
The Swellengrebel Peach tree produces medium to large freestone peaches. The fruit has a reddish blush, and sweet, juicy white flesh. It is prized for its excellent flavour, making it a favorite for fresh eating, baking, and canning.
The tree has a rounded canopy with lush, dark green leaves. Depending on the growing conditions and care, it may reach a height of about 5-7 metres.
Peach trees are are self-fertile so fruit well from a single tree.
Harvesting
Swellengrebel peaches are ready for harvest in November/December, depending on your location and local climate. Harvest when the fruit is fully ripe but still firm.
Position
Peach trees thrive in regions with a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. They require a certain number of chill hours during the winter (typically around 200-300 hours below 7°C) to break dormancy and promote fruit production. 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.
Plan the site before planting, keeping the tree away from external walls, electrical lines (about 5m) and other trees. Allow adequate spacing between peach trees to ensure good air circulation and proper growth.
Plant in a protected area if possible, as strong winds can damage branches and leaves.
Select a sunny location for planting the tree, as peach trees require at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Soil Type
Peaches prefer well-draining soil rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. If your soil is heavy or clayey, consider improving its drainage by amending it with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure.
When planting, dig a hole wide and deep enough to accommodate the roots without crowding or bending them. Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, ensuring that the graft union (the swollen area where the tree is grafted onto the rootstock) is above soil level. Firmly tamp down the soil around the tree to eliminate air pockets.
Add one 200-gram Bag of Superfrass added to the soil when planting.
Watering
Regular watering is essential, especially during dry spells, but be cautious not to overwater. Deep watering is beneficial to encourage strong root development.
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.
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 Spring when they are about the size of a dime to promote larger, healthier fruit and prevent branch breakage due to excessive weight.
Pruning
Prune Swellengrebel peach trees annually to maintain an open center or vase shape, which improves air circulation and sunlight penetration. Prune in late winter to early spring before new growth begins.
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.
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.
