Management and pruning methods of peach trees at different stages

1. Seedling stage

Peach trees in the seedling stage have weak disease resistance and need to be provided with sufficient light and proper ventilation to reduce the possibility of disease. At this time, it requires a lot of water, but it is also afraid of waterlogging. Water the plants three times a day, but don't water too much each time to avoid root flooding and rot. Pruning is mainly done by pinching the top buds when the plant is 25-30 cm high to control the size of the plant.

2. Growth period

From the time the peach tree sprouts until its leaves fall is its growing period. At this time, it has a great demand for water and nutrients, and also needs to be given long-term light. This will allow it to grow stronger and more robust, and at the same time help it to bloom and bear fruit. During the growing season, pruning can be larger, cutting off the dense branches and leaves to increase internal ventilation and light transmission. You should also cut off dead and weak branches to reduce nutrient waste.

3. Flowering period

The flowering period is included in the growing period, but is different from other times. Before flowering, water should be controlled appropriately to promote the opening of flowers. Stop fertilizing after flowering, otherwise it will burn the roots, cause the flowers to fall, and affect fruit yield. After the flowers fall, it is necessary to add fertilizer in time to supplement nutrients for fruit growth. No pruning is basically required during the flowering period, but the remaining flowers should be picked off after flowering to reduce nutrient consumption.

4. Dormancy

After the peach tree sheds its leaves, it enters a dormant period, during which its growth basically stops. Water less frequently and do not fertilize. Pruning is needed during the dormant period to shorten the branches, which will help promote new branches next year.