Selecting Stone Fruit Crops and Varieties - Growing Organic Orchard Fruits - page 267

Peaches ( Prunus persica ) appear to have originated in China, where they
have been cultivated since around 2000 BCE. The fruit spread widely and is
now cultivated worldwide in temperate regions on both sides of the equator,
between about 24 and 45 degrees north and south latitude, due to chilling re-
quirements and cold hardiness. Oceanic factors, as well as other factors that
affect climate, can extend production a bit beyond these latitudes.
Peaches at a Glance
Region: Depending on variety, peaches are rated from Zones 4 to 9 but
are best adapted to warm and moderate climates (Zones 6-8 commer-
cially). They tend to be difficult to grow where temperatures are below
−15°F (−26°C). Challenging to grow in humid climates.
Soil pH and type: Slightly acidic, well-drained loams, sandy loams, and
loamy sands
Pollination: Most varieties are self-fruitful, but a few varieties are
self-unfruitful.
Variety selection: Varieties cover a wide range of growing regions
and ripening times. Consult with local, state, and provincial fruit spe-
cialists to select varieties.
Italy and the United States are the leading peach producers, followed by Ch-
ina, Greece, Spain, and many other countries. In North America, California
is the leading peach producer. Other states with significant commercial
peach production include South Carolina, Georgia, New Jersey, Pennsylvania,
Michigan, Washington, North Carolina, Texas, and Virginia. In Canada,