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Contender Peach

Contender Peach

Prunus persica 'Contender'

Contender is known as one of the more hardy peaches because of its later blooming dates and hardy, more frost resistant buds.  Most report it to be hardy enough for Zone 4.   Contender ripens clode to Canadian Harmony or about 20 days after Redhaven.  It is large, firm, excellent quality and freestone.  We recommend it for areas that routinely suffer late frosts that hurt many other peach varieties.

Contender Peach Pricing

Item # Description Price
656 Contender peach on Standard (Peach) root, Extra-Large 5/8" up caliper grade $22.99 Add Add to Cart

Height

10-14 Feet

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Spread

8-12 Feet

USDA Hardiness Zone 5-8

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Prunus persica 'Contender'
Homeowner Growing and Maintenance Tips

Contender sets large amounts of hardy, frost resistant buds, so thin it heavily for good size.  It is moderately resistant to bacteria spot.  The tree is vigorous and productive.  Requires about 1050 hours of chilling.

Almost all peaches are self-fertile and require no pollinators. They will set heavy crops on single trees, which need heavy and aggressive thinning early in the season for best fruit size. Maintain good vigor in peaches by pruning every year, and fertilizing moderately. Aim for 1-3 feet of new growth a year. Fertilize early in the season, so that growth is well hardened off before fall and winter cold weather.

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A Little History about Contender Peach

Contender was bred in North Carolina and was introduced in 1988. 

Prunus persica 'Contender' Characteristics & Attributes

Bloom Character
• Self-fertile
• Thin early for size
• Thin heavily for size
• Late blooming
Disease Resistance
• Bacterial spot tolerant
Fruit Characteristics
• Large fruit
• Freestone
Growth Rate/Habit
• Early to bear
• Very productive
• Spreading habit
• Average vigor
Harvest Period
• Mid-season
Other Attributes
• Sweet
• Very juicy
Site Requirements
• Full Sun
• Frost Resistant
• Very hardy
• Winter hardy
Skill Required
• Easy to grow
Uses
• Good for pies
• Canning or freezing
• High dessert quality
• Cooking or baking