Prune your peach tree in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. This helps the tree heal faster and focus its energy on growing strong, healthy fruit.
Cut away any dead, damaged, or weak branches. This improves airflow, reduces disease risk, and allows sunlight to reach all parts of the tree for even growth.
Keep an open-center shape by cutting inward-growing branches. This allows more sunlight to reach the fruit, improving its size, color, and sweetness over time.
Remove extra branches to prevent overcrowding. This boosts air circulation, reduces fungal infections, and helps the remaining fruit grow larger and tastier.
Trim overly long or fast-growing shoots to encourage stronger, more productive branches. This directs the tree’s energy into producing bigger, better peaches.
Always use sharp pruning shears or saws for clean cuts. Disinfect tools before pruning to avoid spreading diseases that can harm your peach tree’s health.
Remove water sprouts—thin, vertical shoots that sap energy from the tree. By cutting them early, you help the tree put its resources into growing delicious peaches.