Germinating Peach Pits
Although you can plant a peach pit directly in the soil during fall and wait for spring germination nature’s way, you can also store the seed until early winter (Dec/Jan.) and then induce germination with cold treatment or stratification. After soaking the pit in water for about an hour or two, place it in a plastic bag with slightly moist soil. Store this in the refrigerator, away from fruit, in temps between 34 and 42 degrees F. (-6 C.). Keep a check for germination, as germinating peach pits may take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple months or more—and that’s if you’re lucky. In fact, it may not germinate at all so you’ll want to try several varieties. Eventually, one will germinate. Note: While it’s certainly not required, some people have found success by removing the hull (outer pit) from the actual seed inside prior to the cold treatment.
How to Plant a Peach Pit
As previously stated, planting peach seeds takes place in fall. They should be planted in well-draining soil, preferably with the addition of compost or other organic material. Plant the peach pit about 3 to 4 inches (8-10 cm.) deep and then cover it with about an inch (2.5 cm.) or so of straw or similar mulch for overwintering. Water during planting and then only when dry. By spring, if the peach was any good, you should see sprouting and a new peach seedling will grow. For those germinated via the refrigerator, once germination occurs, transplant to a pot or in a permanent position outdoors (weather permitting).
How to Grow a Peach Tree from Seed
Growing peaches from seed isn’t difficult once you’ve gotten through the germination process. Transplants can be treated and grown in pots just like any other fruit tree. Here is an article about growing peach trees if you’d like to learn more about peach tree care. Some peach pits germinate quick and easy and some take a little longer—or may not germinate at all. Whatever the case may be, don’t give up. With a little persistence and trying more than one variety, growing peaches from seed can be well worth the extra patience. Of course, then there’s the wait for fruit (up to three years or more). Remember, patience is a virtue!
