Q.Peaches Raised from Seed
I have a peach tree raised from seed which is several years old and has been putting on peaches for five or so years; however, never have the peaches ripened or fallen from the tree. The peaches get about half developed and remain at that stage until the next year and stay on the tree tightly attached. I’ve tried different fertilizer. I have no clue as to what to do. They should be of the ‘Elberta’ variety. Any help?
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
I was not able to find much on this, but I have a theory. I believe that what is happening to the tree is something called buttoning. It occurs when the tree receives too little chilling (for the Elberta variety, they need 750 hours of temps under 45 F). The fruit never ripens well and are small and misshapen. Here is more information: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/environmental/what-is-plant-buttoning.htm