About Elberta Peach Trees
Elberta peach trees have so much going for them that it’s hard to know where to start. This wildly popular peach variety was developed in Georgia in 1875 by Samuel H. Rumph, who named it after his wife, Clara Elberta Moore. Those engaged in Elberta peach growing consider the tree to be among the best fruit producers. With just one tree, you can get up to 150 pounds (68 kg.) of peaches in a season. Elberta peaches are also extremely ornamental in the garden. When their spring blooms open, their branches are filled with gorgeous pink and purple flowers. The peach fruit soon follows and are ready to harvest in summer.
Grow an Elberta Peach Tree
Elberta peach trees give you large, sweet peaches that are perfect for canning, snacking, and baking. The fruit are beautiful as well as delicious, ripening to a deep, golden yellow with a red blush. When you are ready to grow an Elberta peach tree yourself, there are several matters to consider. First is climate. These trees thrive in USDA plant hardiness zones 5 through 9. That means that if you live in a hot or cold area, it may not be very wise. Another consideration is size. A standard Elberta peach tree can grow to 24 feet (7 m). tall with a similar spread. The dwarf version grows no taller than 10 feet (3 m.). For Elberta peach growing, you’ll need to plant the tree in a sunny location getting at least six hours of direct sun a day. The soil should be sandy and well-drained.
Care for Elberta Peaches
Care for Elberta peaches is not difficult. The trees are self-fertile, which means that they do not require a second tree for pollination. However, they may produce better if you plant a second tree. The most important thing you need to do to care for Elberta peaches is irrigation. These trees are not drought tolerant and will require regular watering.
