Peach 'Duke of York'

'Duke of York' is an old and highly esteemed variety of peach that has long been a favourite in the UK for both wall-training and greenhouse cultivation. It is a vigorous and prolific tree that produces large quantities of high-quality fruit. In early spring, it produces a spectacular show of large, bright pink blossoms that add significant ornamental value to the garden, though they require protection from frost. The fruit is large, with a rich, crimson-red flush over a greenish-yellow skin. The flesh is pale yellow, melting, and very juicy with a rich, sweet flavour. Ideally harvested in mid-July, it is one of the earliest ripening varieties. Like most peaches in the UK, it performs best when fan-trained against a south-facing wall to maximise sun exposure and provide shelter from cold winds. It is relatively susceptible to peach leaf curl and thrives best with some winter protection.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Moist, well-drained, rich soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Mar, Apr.