Knowledgebase
What is wrong with my peach trees? #682709
Asked March 04, 2021, 5:01 PM EST
Clackamas County Oregon
Expert Response
Here's a simplified information about brown rot:
http://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/GARDEN/FRUIT/DISEASE/aprbrownrot.html
If you see oozing sap, then you might also have bacterial canker:
https://pnwhandbooks.org/plantdisease/host-disease/cherry-prunus-spp-bacterial-canker
And here is information on leaf curl
https://pnwhandbooks.org/plantdisease/host-disease/peach-prunus-persica-leaf-curl
The dormant season application of copper is your best bet. If the flower buds are not yet open, you could try another treatment of copper or lime sulfur for the leaf curl.
I don't recommend the neem oil+fish emulsion+kelp combo in the spring. It may of may not help.
Overall, peaches are very difficult to grow in Western Oregon, especially in a low lying area with standing water. If your efforts this year are successful and you get a decent harvest and the trees look better, then you are on the right track.
If not, I'd consider removing the trees to cut your losses and try growing fruit trees that require less care such as figs and persimmons. You'd probably want to improve your soil drainage my mounding soil in raised beds if you decide to replant.