During the fruit drop period, peach trees typically experience three distinct phases of fruit loss. The first stage occurs within 1 to 2 weeks after flowering, when unswollen ovaries are shed. This is mainly due to poor pollination and fertilization, incomplete flowering, or degeneration of the pistil. This phenomenon often results from inadequate management during the previous summer, which may have affected flower bud differentiation and the development of reproductive structures. Other causes include pollen infertility, low germination rates, or a lack of fertility in the pollen.
The second phase takes place 3 to 4 weeks after flowering, when the ovary has already begun to swell. At this point, fruit drop is usually caused by incomplete fertilization, impaired embryo development, or a lack of essential hormones supplied by the embryos. Rainy weather during flowering can interfere with pollination, while insufficient oxygen or a lack of protein supply to the embryos can also lead to developmental failure and subsequent fruit drop.
The third and final stage occurs when the fruit has been successfully fertilized but still falls during its development. This usually happens between early May and early June, when both the embryos and new shoots are actively growing. During this time, the tree requires a significant amount of nitrogen. If there is either an insufficient or excessive supply, the new shoots may grow too vigorously, competing with the fruits for nutrients. This competition can lead to nutrient deficiency in the embryos, halting their development and causing the fruit to fall.
To prevent fruit drop and improve fruit set, several measures can be implemented. After the autumn harvest, it's important to focus on proper fertilization and irrigation, disease and pest control, and overall tree health. Strengthening these practices helps promote better flower bud differentiation and improves the quality of the buds. For issues related to poor pollination, planting pollination trees or using bees and artificial pollination methods can be effective.
To avoid late-stage fruit drop, it's crucial to manage fertilizer and water supply properly before the hardening of the pit. Nitrogen application should be carefully regulated—neither too much nor too little. During rainy seasons, ensure good drainage in the orchard to prevent waterlogging. Regular soil cultivation and pruning during summer help control shoot growth, improve light exposure, and enhance leaf photosynthesis. Additionally, pest control is essential to prevent premature leaf fall.
In addition to these cultural practices, applying plant growth regulators such as 2,4-D and gibberellins after flowering can significantly increase fruit set and reduce fruit drop. A comprehensive approach that combines proper nutrition, environmental management, and chemical interventions is key to maintaining high yields in peach orchards.
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