If you love peaches, then you can grow a real peach tree in your garden from just a pit!
It takes a lot of time, but it's worth it – these fruits taste amazing and contain lots of vitamins.
Here is how you can germinate and grow a full-size tree from a pit.
Get a Fresh Peach
Choose a ripe and fresh peach from which you want to extract the pit. Make sure it's a variety that is suitable for your climate.
Extract the Pit
Cut open the peach, and carefully remove the pit from the center. Clean any remaining fruit flesh from the pit.
Dry the Pit
Allow the pit to air dry for a day or two. This helps prevent mold formation during the next steps.
Crack the Pit Open
Gently crack the pit open using a nutcracker or pliers. Be cautious not to damage the seed inside.
Remove the Seed
Take out the almond-shaped seed from inside the cracked pit. This is the part that will grow into your peach tree.
Stratification (Chill the Seed)
Place the seed in a plastic bag or container with slightly moist peat moss or paper towel.
Seal the bag or container and put it in the refrigerator for about 8-10 weeks.
This mimics winter conditions and prepares the seed for germination.
Prepare a Planting Pot
Fill a small pot with quality potting soil. Make a hole about an inch deep in the center.
Plant the Seed
Place the chilled seed in the hole and cover it with soil. Water the soil lightly.
Provide Proper Conditions
Put the pot in a warm and sunny location. Ensure the soil stays consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Germination and Transplanting
After a few weeks, the seed should sprout.
Once it has a few leaves and is a few inches tall, you can transplant it into a larger pot or directly into your garden.
Outdoor Planting
If transplanting outdoors, choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Space multiple trees about 15-20 feet apart.
Care for Your Peach Tree
Water the tree regularly, especially during dry periods.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring. Prune the tree as needed to encourage a strong structure.
Patience Pays Off
It may take a few years before your tree produces peaches, but the joy of growing your own peach tree is worth the wait!
Previously, we talked about growing lavatera.
