In the summer, it's important to perform topping on peach trees to manage their growth and improve fruit production. Topping involves removing the tender tip of the new shoots, which helps redirect nutrients and balance the tree's energy. This practice not only slows down the growth of the topped branches but also encourages better shoot filling, increases flower bud development, and reduces competition between adjacent shoots.
Here are some key points to consider when topping peach trees during the summer:
First, focus on upright shoots by pinching back the top 5-6 leaves. This encourages the growth of new shoots from the back, and after pinching the tip, 1-2 new shoots can develop. By repeating this process 2-3 times a year, you can effectively control the vigor of new growth. It’s essential to be consistent, as the timing and length of the shoots affect the results. Shoots that are about 5-6 leaves long should be pinched, while those that grow too long (30-40 cm) before being cut may actually consume more nutrients and fail to control growth effectively.
Second, for fruiting branches that are still actively growing, trim them back by 1/4 to 1/5. This helps regulate their growth and promotes better flower bud formation.
Third, auxiliary tip-picking is useful for controlling the growth of side shoots on the main branches. This encourages stronger branch development. Additionally, any competing shoots or those that were pruned in the previous summer can be controlled through similar techniques, helping to promote flower bud differentiation.
Fourth, when cutting back sprigs near large branches that tend to grow rapidly, leave three leaves at the cut point. Ensure there are no leaves between the three buds, and allow the leaf buds to develop before they start growing again. Usually, one topping is sufficient, but if the growth continues, a second topping may be necessary. However, it's important to avoid over-pruning, especially on weak or moderately sized trees.
Through experience, it has been shown that proper summer topping plays a vital role in peach tree management. On one hand, it accelerates the development of fruit-bearing branches and improves overall tree structure. On the other hand, it helps reduce tree vigor, encourages flower bud formation, and ensures balanced growth. These practices ultimately lead to higher yields and better economic returns.
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