Why do peaches have stunted growth and fall off?

1. Insufficient Chilling Hours: Peaches require a certain number of chilling hours (cold temperatures) to break dormancy and set fruit. If your area does not receive enough winter chill, the peach trees may not produce fruit or may drop fruit prematurely.

2. Improper Irrigation: Peaches trees need consistent moisture, but not waterlogged conditions. Underwatering or overwatering can stress the tree and cause fruit to drop.

3. Poor Soil Conditions: Peaches thrive in well-draining, slightly acidic soil. Alkaline or compacted soil can restrict root growth and affect nutrient uptake, leading to stunted growth and fruit drop.

4. Nutrient Deficiencies: A lack of essential nutrients, especially nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, can affect tree growth and fruit development. Regular soil testing and fertilization can help prevent nutrient deficiencies.

5. Pest and Diseases: Various pests and diseases, such as aphids, scale insects, peach leaf curl, and brown rot, can damage peach trees and cause fruit to drop. Regular monitoring and proper pest and disease management practices are necessary to protect the trees.

6. Late Frosts: Spring frosts can damage developing blossoms and small fruits, causing them to drop off. Frost protection measures, such as using row covers or applying anti-frost measures, may be necessary in areas prone to late frosts.

7. Overcropping: When a peach tree produces too much fruit, it may not have enough energy to support all the fruit, leading to smaller, stunted fruit and eventual drop. Thinning the fruit, especially early in the season, can help prevent overcropping and improve fruit quality.

Addressing these factors and ensuring proper care of your peach trees can help prevent stunted growth and fruit drop and promote healthy fruit production. If you are unsure about the specific cause of the problem, consulting with a local agricultural extension agent or a qualified arborist can provide further guidance and recommendations.