Color: Pink spring blossoms; golden-yellow fruit with a bright red blush
-
Fragrance: Lightly fragrant flowers
-
Wildlife Attraction: Attracts bees and other pollinators; fruit may attract birds
-
Pest & Disease Resistance: Good resistance to peach leaf curl and other common peach diseases
-
Planting Zones: USDA zones 4–8
-
Sun Preferences: Full sun (6–8+ hours of direct sunlight daily)
-
Drought Tolerance: Moderate once established; benefits from consistent watering during fruit set
Bare Root Planting Instructions
-
Planting Time: Plant in early spring while the tree is dormant.
-
Site Selection: Choose a sunny site with well-draining soil and good air circulation.
-
Soil Preparation: Loosen soil and incorporate organic matter if needed; ideal pH is 6.0–6.5.
-
Digging the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root system and deep enough to spread roots naturally.
-
Planting Depth: Position the tree so the graft union sits 2–3 inches above the soil line.
-
Backfilling: Refill the hole with native soil, gently firming to remove air pockets.
-
Watering: Water deeply after planting and keep soil evenly moist during establishment.
-
Mulching: Apply 2–3 inches of mulch around the base, keeping mulch a few inches away from the trunk.
-
Pruning: Prune at planting to remove broken branches and establish an open-center shape.
Contender Peach Trees are an excellent choice for gardeners in colder regions who want reliable harvests, beautiful spring blooms, and delicious, high-quality peaches.