Researchers publish guide to help state peach growers

Two veteran orchard crop researchers at the University of California, Davis, have produced a handbook on peach cultivation and postharvest considerations.

Thomas Gradziel is a UC Davis professor and plant breeder and Carlos Crisosto is a UC Davis professor and Cooperative Extension farm advisor in consumer quality and postharvest technology.

They said their new guide book, “Peach,” gives growers basic information that can reduce their production risks, boost profits and help them face issues such as climate change and a shifting world market.

California farmers cultivated 36,800 acres of peaches, producing 505,000 tons of fruit worth more than $378 million in 2021. While the crop ranks 23rd in the state, based on cash receipts, California remains the No. 1 producer of peaches in the U.S., according to the California Department of Food and Agriculture.

Chapters in “Peach” cover rootstock, cultivars, water management, fertilization, fruit growth and thinning, testing for maturity and supply chain management after harvest. Other chapters cover pests and diseases, maintaining fruit quality, nutrition and canning.

“This book was a pleasure to contribute to, as it includes information from expert colleagues plus exciting new ideas and applications from our recent researchers,” Gradziel said in a statement announcing the book’s release.

“Peach” complements a previous publication by Crisosto, “Manual on postharvest handling of Mediterranean tree fruits and nuts.”

For more information, visit bit.ly/PeachBook.