Sue Sanderson – our horticulturist expert
Sue Says
Young trees should be limited in their fruit production to allow them to grow and establish a strong framework of branches during the first 3 years. It is common for many fruit trees to undergo a June drop when the tree will shed an excess of fruit. Peaches fruit on one year old wood so can imagine that the tree was inundated! It is absolutely essential to thin the fruit on peach trees to allow 15-20cm (6-8) gap between each fruit along the branch. It may feel as though most of the crop is being removed. This process will allow each fruit the space to develop properly, and prevent the tree from being weakened by carrying an excessive crop. If the fruits were not pollinated in the first place, then they will also drop naturally. This can be a problem in a greenhouse where there a fewer pollinating insects. Pollination can be improved by gently tickling each flower with a small paintbrush. Finally, make sure that there is adequate ventilation on warm days and keep your tree well watered while it is carrying fruit. When fruit trees experience drought they will often shed their crop in order to reduce their water demands
