I read somewhere that there are more than 2000 varieties of peach trees! That gives us a lot to choose from. Even here in the Phoenix area we can choose from hundreds of low chill varieties. This years early summer season has been cooler than usual, the peaches that are usually ripe by the end of April are just turning, softening and sweetening now, at the very end of May! Here's a basket of our Desert Gold and Gold Dust peaches. The colors, tastes and even the shapes are different, but both are delicious!
I like to do my summer pruning while I'm harvesting my peaches. Summer pruning is important if you want to keep your peach trees at a reasonable height. Peach trees are very vigorous growers and need to be kept under control. Trim trees into a goblet shape and take out any crossing limbs. Thin out areas where growth is too thick. After harvest I like to use my hedge clippers and bring the whole top growth down at least two or three feet.
These peaches are from our May Pride peach tree. They are a beautiful color and are juicy and red inside! They were the first to ripen this year.
If you are in my area contact me,( Jill@sweetlifegarden.com) our neighborhood street stand will be open until our peaches are gone. By the end of the week we will be "puttin' up" peaches and turning them into our wonderful Jam!
Today, we honor our soldiers who died in the service of our Great Nation! God Bless America!Have a wonderful day!
