Knowledgebase
dwarf peach tree in container #747116
Asked April 29, 2021, 10:18 PM EDT
i have a dwarf peach tree in a container. It has already flowered and already has very small peaches starting to grow. Its currently in a 12 " wide container and about 10" deep. I want to transfer it to a larger container, about 17" by 16" deep. do i use potting mix or potting soil? also, what should i use for fertilizer and insect spray? thank you.
Baltimore County Maryland
Expert Response
Dwarf tree fruits are not usually as 'dwarf' as people think they are and generally aren't a great choice for container gardening. Also, tree fruits such as apples, peaches and cherries grown in our area are prone to diseases and pests that need close management and carefully timed and repeated pesticide sprays for satisfactory fruit.
For your dwarf peach, our specialist thinks that you will need a much bigger pot, along the lines of a 25 gallon container, at minimum. We suggest using a half of soil-less mix and half of compost (or Leaf-Gro, which is made locally). (You could use all soil-less mix if preferred).
We tend to think that now is not the best time to re-pot, but would wait for when the tree is dormant.
We don't have the research on any new cultivars but if you would like to share a named variety we'd be happy to take a look.
Christine
From: Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>>
To: sjlorusso <<personal data hidden>>
Sent: Fri, Apr 30, 2021 12:21 pm
Subject: Re: dwarf peach tree in container (#0017047)
You're welcome.