Although it may take some time, it is possible to grow your own peaches simply by planting a peach pit. Unfortunately though, planting a peach pit may not always result in a fruiting tree. Today we'll show you how to plant a peach seed to successfully grow a peach tree and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Please keep in mind that it may take as long as 2-3 years for your peach tree to produce fruit. It may seem like a long time, but trust us, it's worth the wait!
There are many different ways to go about planting a peach seed, but we've tried and tested a few different methods, and we'd like to share with you the best and easiest method. Of course, what worked for us, may not work for you (environmental factors, weather, soil, etc…), but please follow our guide below and you should be able to enjoy fresh peaches in no time!
How to Plant a Peach Seed for a Successful Fruiting Tree
First, you must get your hands on a couple of seeds. To do this, simply purchase some peaches, eat them, and keep the seed. Wash the seed of any pulp and dry out in the sun or on paper towels for 2 days. Do this only when you're ready to start planting…usually at the beginning of fall.
Alternatively, you can also soak the peach pit in water for about an hour. Then, place the pit in a plastic bag along with some moist soil. Store this in the refrigerator and away from other fruits and vegetables until you're ready to plant.
Growing a peach tree from seed isn't all that difficult once you've established the seedling.
Planting a Peach Seed:
- Choose a good quality, well draining potting soil and add is some organic matter as well as compost.
- Plant in the fall.
- Plant the peach pit 3-4 inches deep and cover it with about an inch or so of of straw or mulch. This is so that your peach pit will be protected during the winter.
- Water immediately after planting, and then only once a week, once the soil is dry.
- By spring, you should see a seedling sprout out. If not, your peach pit may have just been a dud.
- You can also start your peach pit indoors in a small container, and then transplant it outdoors in the spring.
- Be very patient when planting your peach seed, as seedlings can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to germinate.
- If your peach seed does not germinate, try using a different variety of peach.
Growing a Peach Tree:
- Germination is often the most difficult task, but once your peach seed has germinated, it's smooth sailing from then on!
- Transplant your seedlings directly into the ground or into pot just like any other fruit tree.
Care:
- Water only when soil is dry, and do not water in the winter.
- Keep soil protected with mulch or straw.
- Fertilize regularly during growth.
- Prune the peach tree back, cutting off any side branches. Pruning encourages growth and promotes tree health.
Peach trees don't require too much care while they're growing, but they will take several years to bear fruit. Be patient though, and you will be rewarded with amazing peaches!
Happy Planting!
I had just finished eating a small bowl of cherries, and remember thinking if you could plant the pits. Then I read your article in pinterest, thank you very much, I now have pits in the fridge, and am going to start some cherry tomato plants. Thanks again , I’m new to this interesting hobby and appreciate all the help I can get.
Good luck George! Let us know how it goes 🙂
Those are the most prolific and simple plant to grow. Enjoy!
By “seed” do you mean pit or crack the pit open and plant the seed?
Hi Cathy,
The seed is the pit, so when you’re planting a peach pit, you’re essentially planting from seed 🙂
Hi, Should the pit be planted in a specific way? Which way up? Blunt end or pointed end up?
How deep do I plant tree? I seem to keep killing mine
None of these articles give the information I was looking for. I needed a longer article which explained it better. Thank you