A Gardeners Forum Forums General Discussion The Food Garden Forum Peach Tree

Hi everyone and greetings from sunny Harrow in England.

I need advice on my peach tree, which I planted several years ago and which, last year, for the first time really, produced a huge crop of delicious fruit. My problem is that the tree is listing at an alarming angle (about 60 degrees)? I have pruned the extremities to make it more compact but wonder if there is anything more I should be doing to help ensure it doesnt eventually topple over (or am I worrying about nothing!?)

What are the conditions it is growing in? Is this a new thing? Can you stake it? If you don't mind losing peaches for a year, can you unplant it, straighten & replant?

Hi myndful,

I planted the tree about 10 years ago and I think it would die if I tried to replant it. It was placed quite close (too close! about 8 feet) away from a privet hedge and so, naturaly, I guess, grew away from there in an effort to get more light. Its now about 15-20 ft high, so light competition isnt an issue. First few years it only had about 6 fruits a year - then last year it had about 100 of the most fantastic tasting fruit. So I dont want to lose it!It was staked originally, but as it grew the bindings stretched and dropped away. It is still very healthy, but I'm not sure if trees such as peaches routinely grow at weird angles. I think I will try and restake it (though the trunk is pretty thick). I had also been thinking of fashioning some sort of cradle and propping it up with that (e.g, and most simply, knocking the top bar off the handlle of an old spade, putting some rubber or cloth in the groove and placing it for support).
Or maybe I should just try and make it a tourist attraction - akin to the the Leaning Tower of Pisa!

Wow, I was thinking just a few years when I read "several"...

I would say that as long as you don't try to change the angle, staking it is probably the best idea. Although - a prop bar could be worth a try - maybe need to concrete it in the ground if it is to really be supportive.

Thanks - I think your tip on concreting is a good idea and I think I'll try that. Much obliged!