Peach Trees: A Guide to Growing Arctic Supreme Peaches
Introduction
Peach trees are a great choice for growing fruit in zones 5 through 9. They produce delicious fruit, provide shade, and bloom with beautiful spring flowers. If you’re looking for a unique variety, consider the Arctic Supreme white peach.
What are Arctic Supreme Peaches?
Arctic Supreme peaches have white flesh and a sweet and tart flavor that has won awards in blind tests. They have red and yellow skin and a firm texture. The Arctic Supreme tree is self-fertile, but having another peach variety nearby can increase fruit yield.
Growing an Arctic Supreme Peach Tree
Choosing the Right Rootstock
The size of your peach tree will depend on the rootstock it’s grafted onto. Arctic Supreme peaches are often grafted onto a semi-dwarf rootstock, which means the tree will grow to be 12 to 15 feet tall and wide. Citation is a common semi-dwarf rootstock for this variety and provides some resistance to root knot nematodes and tolerance for wet soil.
Planting and Care
Choose a spot in your yard that gets full sun and has well-drained soil. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the tree deeply and regularly, especially during the first growing season.
Pruning
Prune your Arctic Supreme peach tree each dormant season to encourage healthy growth and to thin out branches. This will improve airflow and reduce the risk of disease.
Harvesting
Arctic Supreme peaches ripen in mid to late summer, depending on your location and climate. The fruit is ripe when it has a slight give when gently pressed. Harvest the peaches by carefully twisting them off the branches.
Preserving Your Harvest
If you can’t eat all of your peaches fresh, there are several ways to preserve them. You can make jams, preserves, or pies. You can also can or freeze your peaches to enjoy later.
Additional Tips
- Arctic Supreme peach trees are not drought tolerant, so water them regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilize your peach tree annually with a balanced fertilizer.
- Protect your peach tree from pests and diseases by spraying it with an organic pesticide or fungicide.
- Harvest your peaches when they are fully ripe for the best flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Arctic Supreme peach trees are a great choice for home gardeners in zones 5 through 9. They produce delicious fruit, are relatively easy to grow, and can be preserved in a variety of ways. With proper care, your Arctic Supreme peach tree will provide you with years of enjoyment.
