Prunus persica Amsden

The Organic 'Amsden' Peach, sometimes called 'June Peach', is an old variety known for its white flesh, vigour, early ripening, and natural resistance to diseases. It is a self-fertile, productive, and early peach tree, with fruits that can be harvested as early as the end of June. The peaches have a beautiful red colour on a creamy yellow background and a tangy and juicy white flesh. They are fairly large, measuring about 7 cm (3in) in diameter, and have a slightly asymmetrical shape. The flowering is semi-early, in April. Plants from Organic Agriculture.

The species name "persica" was given to the peach, which was thought to originate from Persia. In reality, all cultivated forms originate from northern China. Its appearance in Europe occurred in the 6th century and experienced significant development in the 19th century. From then on, numerous selections aimed at improving the fruit's taste took place. The 'Amsden' Peach resulted from a chance seedling obtained before 1900 by Sir Amsden, who gave it his name, in Missouri, USA. Its first registration in the catalogue dates back to 1961.

Like many fruit trees, the Organic 'Amsden' Peach appreciates light, rich, and deep soils. It does not tolerate excessive water or heavy and compact soils well. A sunny location sheltered from the wind will compensate for its sensitivity to spring frosts due to its early ripening. It is a vigorous tree with an upright habit, indicating a tall trunk tree with many vertically growing branches, giving it a slender and elegant silhouette. Its deciduous foliage is bright green and emits a slight almond scent. Its leaves are long, measuring 8 to 15 cm (3 to 6in) in length and 3 to 4 cm (1 to 2in) in width, with short petioles. Its pink, early flowering occurs in April, varying in timing depending on the region. The flowers are hermaphroditic and self-fertile.
The fruiting is also early, starting from the end of June. Its white, tangy, and juicy fruits are dark red. This tree does not require too much maintenance and tolerates pruning well.

Designed for organic cultivation, the Organic 'Amsden' Peach will thrive under certain conditions. To avoid diseases and pests, it will be necessary to:
- choose a deep, light, rich, and well-draining soil,
- avoid planting in an area previously inhabited by other woody plants,
- prune to promote air circulation in the tree,
- thin out fruit sets to prevent the development of diseases on the fruits,
- add compost in limited quantities in autumn, depending on the richness of your soil, and incorporate it into the soil,
- install multi-species hedges (except Prunus), piles of stones and wood, and nest boxes (for birds, voles, and bats) to attract beneficial insects.
In case of disease appearance, removing and burning the affected parts will be necessary. The Amsden Peach is susceptible to rust but resistant to moniliasis. In case of rust attacks, consider spraying nettle or horsetail infusion or a sulfur-based organic product.

Peaches can be enjoyed raw, cooked, sweet, savoury, flambéed, glazed, or deglazed. They pair very well with wine and certain meats, such as duck. They can be found in numerous recipes, including jams, compotes, and pastries.

For transportation reasons, our tallest scions may be pruned before shipment. They are suitable for all common training sizes: cordons, espaliers, goblets, half-standards, and low standards, except for high standards. If you would like more information or advice on training your fruit trees, please do not hesitate to contact us.