Peaches are a favorite summertime fruit; and because August is National Peach Month, we want to share tips for starting a backyard orchard full of fresh peaches. It will take at least two years to see peaches; but the reward of seeing over 40 pounds of fresh fruit is worth the hard work.

How to grow peaches

Peaches require full sunlight, plenty of water and loamy soil that is well-drained. Growers will need to remember to space out peach seedlings in order for the trees to blossom. Small trees can get away with being 10-12 feet apart from one another. 

Caring for peach trees

Like vegetables, and other fruits, orchard growers will need to protect their peaches from hungry deer. Peach growers should install deer fencing around properties to rid deer from plants; or at the least, use tree guards to stop deer from rubbing antlers on trees.