Summer is coming. That means it's the perfect time to plant a few fruit varieties for your landscape. And when we think of days spent outside, grilling and gardening, we instantly think of fruit trees—especially the peach tree.
It's easy to see why the peach is a symbol of the season: from its sunset colors to its sweet, refreshing taste, this stone fruit is the treat to beat the heat. And growing peaches from home doesn't have to be complicated! In fact, health experts agree that having your own peach tree is a good idea if you frequently eat the fruit (click here to find out why). You just need to ensure that your peach tree will get enough "chill hours," meaning it experience anywhere between 750 and 1,000 hours below 45°F during the winter.
Here are our top 4 peach tree varieties to get you growing this summer—you'll have an at-home orchard to call your own in no time!
1. Frost Proof Peach — Beginner-Friendly & Tough
So, the Frost Proof is probably not what comes to mind for summer, but hear us out, especially if you live up North. The Frost Proof Peach can carry you through multiple seasons, standing up to last cold fronts and still producing a large, delectable harvest.
Plus, the Frost Proof Peach is pest resistant, disease resistant, and drought tolerant, so you don't have to have a green thumb to grow the Frost Proof Peach Tree right at home (even if you often experience cold weather). And because you'll likely be planting it in a cold area, you probably won't have to worry about chilling requirements. Basically, the Frost Proof is synonymous with carefree growth, perfect for beginners and experts alike.
2. Bonfire Patio Peach — Deliciousness for Small Spaces
Dealing with a small yard or no yard at all? It's no problem when it comes to the Bonfire Patio Peach Tree. It’s aptly named for its ability to produce the blazing signature color of peaches and delicious taste without taking up much space, especially since as a mature tree, it will reach a height of 4 to 5 feet.
But don't let its small stature fool you—the Bonfire Patio produces sweet, succulent and sizable peaches with plenty of flavor, despite its small silhouette. And as with most of our peach tree varieties, it couldn't be simpler to grow.
3. Elberta Peach — Famously Big Fruit
When you think of the classic peach tree, you're thinking of the Elberta Peach Tree. Elberta Peaches are some of the world's most famous peaches because of their taste, timeless color, and easy upkeep (including disease resistance).The Elberta Peach gives you sizable peaches that are well-suited to canning, snacking and baking.
And did we mention disease resistance? In fact, Elberta Peach Trees are the most disease resistant peach varieties available. They're even insect resistant, meaning you can grow your peaches organically...no harsh chemicals or sprays. And you can expect the mature tree to grow up to 15 feet tall and 10 feet wide.
4. Redskin Peach — A Hybrid That Packs a Punch
Last but not least: with the Redskin Peach Tree, you get the best of two varieties of peaches in one fresh package. Which means fruit in 2 years or less for you.
A descendent of two favored varieties, the Red Haven and Elberta, the Redskin Peach Tree is a premium fruit producer. Plus, you get a top-choice, fresh and firm peach, along with juicy texture that packs a unbeatably sweet, tangy punch, perfect for eating right off the Redskin's branches.
Plus, the Redskin is another great pick for small landscapes because it's a dwarf variety that fits almost anywhere.
Getting the Most Out of Any Peach Tree
So, why wait? Get crisp, delicious color and the sweetest fruit imaginable from your backyard. Forget trips to the supermarket or big box—get a peach tree (or two) for yourself, delivered right to your door for the summer. Check out some of our other top selections, and get growing!
