A ripe peach picked straight from the tree is one of the juiciest fruits that can be grown.
The closely related, nectarine is slightly harder to cultivate.

Site and soil

Peaches and nectarines are best grown as a fan on a sunny, south- or south-west-facing wall.
Peaches can also be grown as free-standing bushes in very favourable sites, but nectarines will struggle. A sheltered position will help prevent the leaves and fruit becoming damaged.
Plant in well-drained soil, with plenty of well-rotted humus to help retain moisture.

Buying and planting

It is best to buy a partially trained, two- or three-year-old fan as this will save both time and money; there should be at least eight branches.
The best time to plant is late autumn when the soil is still warm and there is greater chance of the tree establishing. A container-grown peach tree can be planted at any time of year, it is better not to do so during summer as it will need lots of water.

Plant care

Keep compact peaches grown in containers in a greenhouse until the risk of frosts are over, and cover fan-trained or bush-shaped trees with hessian or fleece.
In early spring, sprinkle a general granular fertiliser around the root area. Then mulch around the base of the tree with well-rotted manure to help retain moisture.
Water container-grown trees every day and give them a high potash liquid feed every few of weeks. They should be moved into an unheated greenhouse from early winter until late spring.

Harvesting

The fruit is suitable for harvesting when it has fully coloured and the flesh near the stalk feels soft. To pick the fruit, cup it in the palm of the hand and gently lift. It should easily come away from the tree.
Peaches and nectarines are best eaten directly after being picked. Fruits picked just before ripening will last longer and can be left to mature indoors.