Peach tree problems - Ask Extension
How can I diagnose the problems with my peach trees. One is a red haven, the other a flamin fury. Both seem to be suffering the same problem. They are...
Knowledgebase
Peach tree problems #243277
Asked May 11, 2015, 8:58 AM EDT
How can I diagnose the problems with my peach trees. One is a red haven, the other a flamin fury. Both seem to be suffering the same problem. They are 3 yrs old and are not leafing out like they should. Over half the buds are dead, yet not all branches are dead. Can you offer any advice on how to diagnose and corrective actions to take?
Washtenaw County Michigan
Expert Response
Your pictures show branches where the tips have died back but the branches are sprouting out from buds lower on the branches. Prune these branches back to the living growth (about 1/4 inch from living growth). We live in a state where severe winter temperatures can cause flower and vegetative buds to die on peaches. The last two winters have had temperatures below minus 20. Peaches can have bud damage at minus 10 and stem damage at minus 25. Many locations had temperatures this low this past winter. Often a bigger source of damage is when plants are coming out of dormancy in the spring and lose their cold hardiness. It is at this point where even a frost as well as a freeze can kill buds in the spring. Make sure when you prune to not leave stubs. Cut back close to live buds to reduce decay problems. I also see some sap flow on stem that could be due to a borer that attacks peach trees. First and foremost keep the tree healthy by watering during dry conditions and fertilizing in the spring to promote vigorous growth. A healthy tree is not as attractive to certain insects like borers. Use mulch 2 to 3 inch depth spread evenly over root system (keep mulch back away from stem about 2 inches). Mulch will help prevent quick changes in soil temperatures and moisture levels. Please see the following sites for more information: http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/how_cold_is_too_cold_for_michigan_fruit_crops
http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/2000/pdf/2032.pdf
The above link on borers give more information on this common pest of peaches.
http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/2000/pdf/2032.pdf
The above link on borers give more information on this common pest of peaches.
Thank you for your reply Robert.
When do you suggest I prune these trees back? I've been told that this is a bad time of year to prune peach trees as it could invite diseases.
Rusty Berenson
When do you suggest I prune these trees back? I've been told that this is a bad time of year to prune peach trees as it could invite diseases.
Rusty Berenson
Timing of pruning is important. During damp conditions there is a greater incidence of infection that can occur on fresh pruning cuts. I would suggest to prune during a period of warmer and dry conditions to remove the dead tips from winter. It would be best in future to prune out any dead while plants are dormant in late winter to early spring.
