Peach 'Peregrine' Prunus persica 'Peregrine' (F)

Water

Peach trees like the 'Peregrine' variety should be watered deeply, allowing for the soil to fully saturate. In the spring and summer during the fruiting season, when trees are actively growing, they should be watered every 7 to 10 days, depending on the weather conditions, with approximately 5 gallons per watering for young trees and up to 10 gallons for mature trees. During the dormant season in fall and winter, water them less frequently, just enough to prevent the soil from drying out completely. It is important to note that overwatering can lead to root rot, while under-watering can stress the tree and impact fruit production.

Light

'Peregrine' peach trees thrive best in full sunlight, receiving at least six hours of direct sun daily. The ideal spot for planting them would be in an open area away from larger structures or trees that could create shade. Good sunlight is essential for healthy growth and fruit development, so make sure to position your peach tree in the brightest location within your landscape.

Temperature

'Peregrine' peach trees grow optimally in temperatures ranging between 75°F and 85°F but can handle short periods of temps as high as 100°F. They require a certain number of chill hours, typically between 600 and 900 hours below 45°F to produce fruit, but should not be exposed to temperatures below -10°F to avoid cold injury. The ideal conditions for the 'Peregrine' peach include a warm, temperate climate with adequate winter chilling to ensure proper dormancy and fruit set.

Pruning

Pruning your 'Peregrine' peach tree is key to maintaining tree health, encouraging strong growth, and improving fruit yield. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth starts but after the threat of extreme cold has passed. Cut back dead or diseased limbs, thin out crowded branches to allow sunlight into the canopy, and shape the tree to keep it at a manageable size. Annually pruning your peach tree also reduces the risk of pests and disease by improving air circulation.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for the Peach tree 'Peregrine' is well-draining, with a mix of loam, sand, and organic compost, promoting healthy root growth. Ideal soil pH should be slightly acidic, between 6.0 and 7.0.

Repotting

Young Peach 'Peregrine' trees should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to ensure continued growth and root health. Mature trees are usually not repotted but may require soil replenishment.

Humidity & Misting

The Peach tree 'Peregrine' prefers moderate humidity levels typical of outdoor environments. It does not thrive in excessively high or low humidity conditions.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  For indoor cultivation, ensure bright light, limited space, and proper pruning.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, and protect from harsh conditions.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA.

Life cycle

The 'Peregrine' peach begins its life cycle as a dormant seed, which after stratification, germinates in the warmth of spring, developing a root system and shoot. The juvenile plant grows, forming a small sapling that eventually matures into a fruit-bearing tree through vegetative growth and the development of a strong woody structure. Flower buds formed during the previous season bloom in early spring, followed by pollination, typically by bees, leading to fertilization. After pollination, the flowers develop into peaches, the tree's fruits, which grow larger and ripen by late summer. Once the peaches are harvested, the tree enters a state of senescence in preparation for winter dormancy, shedding its leaves as it conserves energy for the next growing season. The tree can live for many years, repeating this annual cycle, though commercial fruiting lifespan is often shorter due to intensive agricultural practices.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Early spring

• Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the 'Peregrine' peach (Prunus persica 'Peregrine' (F)) is by grafting. Typically, this is done during the dormant season, which is late winter to early spring. In grafting, a scion or cutting from the 'Peregrine' peach is joined to a rootstock of another peach variety that is known for its robust root system. The scion, generally about 6 to 8 inches (approximately 15 to 20 centimeters) long, is cut at an angle to match a similar cut on the rootstock, ensuring the cambium layers (growth tissues) of both the scion and the rootstock align for successful growth and healing. The join is then secured with grafting tape or a similar material to maintain contact until the graft union has healed and the scion is able to grow independently, supported by the rootstock. Grafting not only combines the desirable fruit qualities of the 'Peregrine' peach with a hardy base, but it also increases disease resistance and adapts the tree to a variety of soil types.