Belle of Georgia Peaches: A Guide for Home Gardeners
Introduction
If you’re looking for a peach that’s both beautiful and delicious, look no further than the Belle of Georgia peach. This variety is known for its large, rosy-blushed peaches that are perfect for eating fresh, canning, or baking. Plus, the Belle of Georgia peach tree is disease-resistant and self-fertile, making it a great choice for home gardeners.
About the Belle of Georgia Peach Tree
The Belle of Georgia peach tree is a vigorous grower that can reach a height of 25 feet. It has a spreading habit and produces an abundance of fruit. The peaches are large, with a firm flesh and a sweet, juicy flavor. They ripen in late summer and can be stored for several weeks in a cool, dark place.
Growing Belle of Georgia Peaches
Belle of Georgia peach trees are relatively easy to grow. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun. They also need at least 800 chilling hours per year, which means they are best suited for USDA hardiness zones 5 to 8.
To plant a Belle of Georgia peach tree, dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the root ball. Place the tree in the hole and spread the roots out over a mound of loose soil. Fill in the hole with soil and pack it down firmly. Water the tree deeply and mulch around the base to help retain moisture.
Care and Maintenance
Belle of Georgia peach trees need regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. They also need to be pruned annually to remove dead or diseased branches and to encourage new growth.
Fertilize Belle of Georgia peach trees in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduce fruit production.
Harvesting and Storing Belle of Georgia Peaches
Belle of Georgia peaches are ready to harvest when they are fully colored and slightly soft to the touch. To harvest, gently twist the peach off the branch. Do not pull, as this can damage the tree.
Store Belle of Georgia peaches in a cool, dark place. They can be stored for several weeks, but they are best eaten fresh.
Troubleshooting
Belle of Georgia peach trees are relatively disease-resistant, but they can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Some common problems include:
- Bacterial leaf spot: This disease causes brown spots on the leaves. It can be controlled by spraying the tree with a copper fungicide.
- Brown rot: This disease causes the fruit to rot. It can be controlled by removing infected fruit from the tree and spraying the tree with a fungicide.
- Peach tree borer: This insect can damage the trunk and roots of the tree. It can be controlled by applying an insecticide to the base of the tree.
Conclusion
Belle of Georgia peach trees are a great choice for home gardeners who want to grow delicious, nutritious fruit. With proper care and maintenance, these trees will produce an abundance of fruit for many years to come.
