Prunus persica Michelini Organic Peach Tree

The Organic 'Michelini' Peach is a little-known and under-planted variety that deserves to be discovered. The tree is vigorous, hardy, productive, easy to grow, and self-fertile. Its late spring pink flowering occurs between mid-March and mid-April depending on the climate, and its white-fleshed peaches ripen late, in late August or early September. Its round and regular fruits measure between 7 and 8 cm (3in) in diameter, and they are covered with a fuzzy skin that is pinkish-red on a light yellow background. It hides a sweet and fragrant white flesh of good taste. Plants from Organic Agriculture.

The species name "persica" was given to the peach, which was believed to originate from Persia. In reality, all cultivated forms are native to northern China. Its appearance in Europe occurred in the 6th century and experienced strong development in the 19th century. From there, numerous selections aimed at improving the fruit's taste took place. The 'Michelini' Peach is a variety of Italian origin selected before 1930.

Like many fruit trees, the 'Michelini' Peach appreciates light, rich, and deep soils; it does not tolerate excess water or heavy and compact soils. A sunny location sheltered from the wind will aid in fruiting, even though its cold resistance makes it cultivable in all regions. It is a vigorous tree with a spreading habit of a tall trunk with many horizontally growing branches, giving it an 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 a short petiole. Its pale pink flowering appears between mid-March and mid-April. The flowers are hermaphroditic and self-fertile. Fruiting results in round and regular fruits measuring between 7 and 8 cm (3in) in diameter. Pinkish-red on a light yellow background, their skin hides a sweet and fragrant white flesh of good taste quality. This tree does not require too much maintenance and tolerates pruning well.

Intended for organic cultivation, the Organic 'Michelini' Peach will have better development under certain conditions. To avoid diseases and pests, you will need to:
- choose a deep, light, rich, and well-draining soil,
- avoid planting in an area that previously hosted other woody plants,
- prune to promote tree ventilation,
- thin out to prevent the development of diseases on the fruits,
- add compost in limited quantities, depending on the richness of your soil, and incorporate it into the soil in autumn,
- install multi-species hedges (except for prunus), piles of stones and wood, and nesting boxes (for birds, voles, and bats) to attract beneficial insects.
In case of disease appearance, removing and burning affected parts will be necessary.

Peaches can be enjoyed raw, cooked, sweetened, salted, 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 transport reasons, our tallest scions may be pruned before shipping. 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.