During the fruit drop period, peach trees typically experience three distinct stages of fruit loss. The first stage occurs within 1 to 2 weeks after flowering, when non-inflated ovaries are shed. This is primarily caused by poor pollination and fertilization, incomplete flower development, or degeneration of the pistil. This issue often stems from inadequate care during the previous summer, which may have affected flower bud differentiation and the formation of reproductive structures. Other factors include pollen infertility, low germination rates, or a lack of fertility.
The second stage of fruit drop takes place around 3 to 4 weeks after flowering. At this point, the ovary has begun to swell, but the fruit may still fall due to incomplete fertilization, impaired embryo development, or an insufficient supply of hormones from the embryos. Rainy weather during flowering can interfere with pollination, while poor oxygen levels or a lack of protein supply to the embryos can also lead to fruit drop.
The third and final stage occurs after fertilization, when young fruits fall due to competition between developing embryos and new shoots. This usually happens from early May to early June. During this time, both the embryos and new shoots are growing rapidly, requiring significant nutrients. If nitrogen supply is either too low or excessive, the shoots may grow too vigorously, taking away essential nutrients from the fruit, leading to developmental issues and eventual fruit drop.
To reduce fruit drop and improve fruit set, several preventive measures can be taken. After the autumn harvest, proper nutrient management, pest control, and improved soil conditions should be prioritized to promote healthy flower bud development. For cases where pollination is lacking, planting pollination trees or using bees and artificial pollination techniques can help. To prevent late-stage fruit drop, it’s important to manage fertilizer and water carefully before the hardening of the pit, avoiding overuse or underuse of nitrogen. During rainy seasons, ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging and maintain good root health. Summer pruning helps control shoot growth, improves light exposure, and enhances leaf photosynthesis.
In addition, effective pest control is essential to prevent premature leaf loss. Applying plant growth regulators such as 2,4-D or gibberellin after flowering can also boost fruit set and reduce fruit drop. These combined strategies help ensure better fruit retention and higher yields in peach orchards.
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