Planting Location

• Plant peaches in a location with full sun and good air circulation.
  
  

Soil Requirements

• Peach trees grow in a wide variety of soil types as long as they have excellent drainage. According to Clemson University, wet soil causes root die-back, stunted growth and eventual death. If drainage is inadequate, plant trees in raised beds. Ideal soil pH is 6.0 to 6.5.
  
  

Watering

• Irrigate peaches weekly during summer when there is no rainfall and the month before harvest so fruit reaches optimum size. The University of Missouri recommends not watering after October because doing so can reduce the tree's winter hardiness.
  
  

Fertilizing

• Feed peach trees 1 to 2 pounds of a 12-12-12 fertilizer per year of tree age. Apply fertilizer in the spring before new growth appears.
  
  

Pruning

• For best fruit production and a healthy tree, use an open center system of pruning that removes growth in the tree's interior, creating an open vase shape that allows sunlight penetration and air circulation. Prune in late winter before buds form.