Growli
Get the app

Pruning guide

How to prune peach rochester

Best time
After harvest in late summer (August–September in the UK), plus thinning of new growth in May–June
How often
Annually
Technique
Each year after picking, cut fruited shoots back to a strong basal replacement shoot. Retain 15–25 cm of the current season's new growth on retained laterals. For fan-trained trees, tie in replacement shoots horizontally and remove those growing in or out from the wall.

More peach rochester care

Pruning peach rochester — FAQ

When should I prune peach rochester?

After harvest in late summer (August–September in the UK), plus thinning of new growth in May–June. Each year after picking, cut fruited shoots back to a strong basal replacement shoot. Retain 15–25 cm of the current season's new growth on retained laterals. For fan-trained trees, tie in replacement shoots horizontally and remove those growing in or out from the wall.

How often does peach rochester need pruning?

Annually. Rochester Peach fruits on the previous year's shoots so annual renewal pruning is essential. Without it, the tree becomes unproductive as fruiting wood retreats to the canopy extremities. Rochester is one of the UK's most reliable outdoor peaches but still benefits from a sheltered south-facing wall to ripen fruit and reduce leaf-curl risk.

How do you prune peach rochester?

Each year after picking, cut fruited shoots back to a strong basal replacement shoot. Retain 15–25 cm of the current season's new growth on retained laterals. For fan-trained trees, tie in replacement shoots horizontally and remove those growing in or out from the wall.