ABSTRACT
The peach (Prunus persica) originated in China near Sian at least as early as 2000 B.C. Three species are found growing in the wild: P. davidiana grown in the north, which is used for a rootstock; P. mira on the Tibetan Plateau; and P. ferganensis in the Sinkiang province, both in West China. Temperature is the key factor governing where peaches can be grown successfully. Man has tended to grow peaches farther north and south than they should be grown. Hence, there are problems with winter freezing of buds and wood, spring frosts and/or adequate chilling. The application of fertilizers is only one practice involved in the total nutrition and growth and fruiting response of a peach tree. The important interrelated factors are pruning; fruit thinning; spraying; drought; chilling requirement; such pests as insects, diseases and nematodes and viruses; mechanical damage to roots and trunks; and extremes in temperature and water supply.
