Crop Profile for Peach in Canada - July 2006 (57 pp) - Synopsis

The Peach (Prunus persica var. persica) and the nectarine, Prunus persica are closely related fruit, differing genetically by a single recessive gene. Peach and nectarine trees do not differ in appearance, growth response, bearing habit or other general characteristics. Peaches grow best on sites that are protected from spring frosts with deep, well drained, sandy loam soil.

In Canada, peaches are grown at their northern limits of production. Major production areas include Ontario and British Columbia. Small plantings also exist in Nova Scotia.

The Crop Profile for Peach provides an overview of production and pest management practices for peach in Canada. Information is provided on abiotic factors affecting its growth and production practices. The biology of key disease, insect and mite and weed problems is presented as well as cultural, chemical and alternative methods of control. Detailed information is provided in tabular form on pest occurrence, integrated pest management options and registered pesticides available to growers.

Grower issues/ gaps in pest management, identified through stakeholder consultations are described in each of the three main sections (disease, insect and mite and weed) and under each pest description. Research contacts and sources of additional information on peach production are provided at the end of the profile.

Limited crop production and market statistics are provided in the profile to give context to the economic importance of the commodity. For more detailed statistics pertaining to the crop, the reader is referred to Statistics Canada.

The Crop Profile for Peach is not intended for use as a crop production guide. Please refer to provincial ministry of agriculture websites and crop specialists for detailed information on crop production and pest management in a specific region.

This profile is based on a report prepared under contract (01B68-3-0041) by:

Gerald Walker, Wine and Agricultural Consultant, St-Catharines, Ontario

Pest management data was collected by focus groups through the Canadian Expert Poll on Crop Protection conducted in Ontario in 2005.

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