Ever consider planting the seed of a delicious fruit to grow a new tree? Peach and apricot trees can be grown from seed, despite the fact that common fruits are typically propagated via grafting. Read on to discover how! While planting the seeds of apples, pears, plums, and cherries can also result in a new tree, the seedling tree’s fruit will rarely resemble that of the parent tree.
- In many instances, even seeds from the apple with the best flavor will produce a tree with inedible or low-quality fruit.
- A seedling tree also lacks the dwarfing characteristics of a tree grafted to a dwarfing or semi-dwarfing rootstock, so a seedling apple tree could reach a height of 30 feet.
- For these reasons, vegetative propagation via grafting is the primary method for producing new fruit trees.
Peaches and apricots are generally true to seed, meaning that a seedling tree will resemble the parent tree and produce similar fruit. Although peach and apricot trees are grafted in commercial orchards, a seedling tree is an excellent option for a backyard or community garden orchard. Save pits from locally grown, fully ripe, delicious fruits. Clean pits with a toothbrush and water, removing all bits of fruit. Allow to dry for several days on your counter, if possible with airflow. Crack open the pit and remove the seed. You can use a vise, nut cracker, or hammer as a last resort.
- Please do not allow anyone to consume this seed, as it contains a small amount of toxic cyanide.
- Optional step that increases germination.
- Until you are ready to begin the germination process, store your seeds in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- In the fall, plant several seeds or pits 3 to 4 feet deep in a container or in the ground.
If in a container, bury the container so that the top of the container and the soil line are even. Add several inches of mulch on top for added insulation. Choose a location that is not saturated with water. Your seeds require protection from predators, particularly squirrels.
Add a protective cage or hardware cloth around the container, extending several inches into the soil. During the winter, water only when the soil is completely dry, but be sure to water deeply as the weather warms. In the spring, seedlings should emerge. When the tallest of your seedlings reach over a foot in height, replant them.
Choose a sunny, well-drained location. In general, peach trees should bear fruit within three to five years. To germinate, peach seeds must endure a cold winter period, also known as cold stratification. If you reside in a warm climate, you can simulate the cold conditions necessary for seed germination in your refrigerator.
Start the process approximately four months before the last date of spring frost. Soak seeds overnight in room temperature water. Place seeds in a bag or jar containing moistened potting soil. Store in refrigerator. The objective is to keep them cool and moist, but mold-free. Between one and three months, depending on the type of peach, you should observe the emergence of thick, white rootlets.
The optimal time to plant is approximately one month before the last frost. Even if sprouted earlier, refrigerate sprouted seeds until that time. Plant in a container at least 12 inches deep, or directly into the soil. Should receive 1″ per week of precipitation or irrigation. 
If you’ve started a peach from seed, please tag us on social media with @phillyorchards – we’d love to follow along! MORE INFO: http://www.motherearthnews.com/organic-gardening/growing-fruit-trees-zmaz08jjzmcc.aspx?PageId=1 http://www.garden.org/foodguide/browse/fruit/peach/1387 This edition of POP TIPS was revised by Education Director Corrie Spellman-Lopez with assistance from POP Intern Rachel Baltuch.
How long does a peach tree take to develop from a seed?
It will take a considerable amount of time for a peach pit to develop into a peach tree. As long as you have patience, everything will be fine, and you will soon be able to enjoy the peaches from your new peach tree. On average, it takes three or four years for a peach pit to transform into a fruit-bearing peach tree.
You must simply be patient and keep an eye on the tree until it is ready. A peach tree can become an essential component of your yard. It will add aesthetic value to your property and allow you to harvest delicious peaches. Anyone who truly enjoys peaches and resides in a suitable climate will appreciate having a peach tree.
Simply keep in mind the aforementioned tips, and you’ll have a positive experience: How Long Does It Take a Peach Pit to Grow Into a Peach Tree?
What month should peach seeds be planted?
Plant in late winter or the beginning of spring. Plant a peach tree grown in a container in early spring so that it has the entire growing season to acclimate to its new surroundings before winter. Late in the winter, plant bare-root peach trees (dormant trees that have been stored without soil on their roots).
