Elberta Peach Tree
Product Details
Soil Type | Well Drained |
Sunlight | Full |
Drought Tolerance | Poor |
Mature Height | 10-15 Feet |
Mature Width | 6-10 Feet |
Growth Rate | Fast |
Fall Color | Yellow |
Bloom Color | Pink |
Shipping Restriction | AZ, CA, ID, LA, WA |
This prized peach tree is one of the most popular heirloom varieties. In the spring, it is covered in fragrant pink blossoms. These blossoms are followed by large, yellow freestone peaches that redden and ripen in mid to late summer.
The Elberta Peach tree produces as much as 150 pounds of sweet and juicy fruit each year. These peaches are perfect for canning, baking, or as a sweet, juicy snack on a hot summer day.
Why are they world famous?
Elberta Peach Trees are world famous because of their size and amazing flavor. They are also the most disease resistant variety of peach trees available and are even insect resistant.
Does the Elberta Peach tree need a pollinator?
The Elberta Peach tree is self-fertile, however, it will product more fruit if when paired with another tree.
When does this tree bear fruit?
The Elberta Peach tree has peaches ready to pick in late July to September.
Will this tree fruit in its first year?
With optimal conditions, your Elberta Peach can fruit as soon as the first year.
Planting
The Elberta Peach will thrive when planted in full sun (6 to 8 hours minimum) and well-drained soil. When planting, dig a hole twice as big as the root ball and just as deep. Fill in soil around the root ball, watering as you go to remove air pockets. Continue until the roots are covered. Do not mound dirt or mulch up around the trunk.
Watering
Keep the ground around your tree moist – water your young tree weekly. When the soil around the tree has dried, water well. Your tree may need extra water in times of extreme heat.
Tip: If your leaves are turning yellow, this is a sign of overwatering. If the leaves are brown or dry, this is a sign of not enough water.
Fertilizing
After your tree has been in the ground for 6 weeks, apply 1 lb. of a balanced fertilizer formula such as 12-12-12. In addition, apply ¾ lb. of fertilizer in the spring before the tree pushes out new growth. Repeat this process in the summer and fall as well.
Maintenance
Your Elberta Peach will need to be pruned in the first two years to maintain an open center shape and encourage fruit production. Prune your tree in late winter or early spring. Trim away any borken or dead branches and any that are criss-crossing.
Peaches are fully ripe and ready to pick when there is no green left on the skin and they come off with a slight twist.