Boron deficiency in peach trees can lead to a condition known as "top dieback," where the shoot tips wither and die from the top down. Below the dead area, side shoots may emerge, while larger branches exhibit a "turfgrass-like" reaction. In the early stages of the deficiency, the fruit's skin becomes thickened, corky, and uneven in texture. As the condition progresses, the flesh cells turn brown, become corky, and the fruit becomes deformed, reducing both quality and yield.
The pattern of boron deficiency is closely linked to the degeneration of meristematic tissues, including the vascular cambium, as well as poor development of parenchyma and vascular tissues. Since boron is not easily translocated within the tree, deficiencies at any stage of fruit development can lead to symptoms. Soil-related causes include thin soil layers with low organic matter and insufficient vegetation cover, which make the soil prone to erosion and boron loss. Additionally, soil pH plays a key role—boron is most available when the pH is between 5 and 7. If the soil is too alkaline or contains excessive lime, boron becomes fixed and unavailable to the plant. Dry soil conditions also hinder boron uptake, as it is less soluble and difficult for roots to absorb.
To manage boron deficiency, several strategies can be employed. One approach is to apply boron directly to the soil. During autumn or early spring, borax or boric acid can be mixed with organic fertilizer. The amount of boron applied depends on the trunk diameter: for trees with a trunk circumference of 10 cm, 30 g per tree; 20 cm, 150 g; and 30 cm, 250 g. This treatment is typically repeated every 3 to 5 years.
Another effective method is foliar application, especially in areas with high salinity or alkalinity, where boron tends to bind and become ineffective. A 1% to 2% borax solution can be sprayed on branches before flowering, and a 0.2% to 0.3% solution during and after blooming to improve fruit set and overall tree health.
However, an excess of boron can also be harmful. Symptoms include elongated internodes, excessive branching, and leaf discoloration. In severe cases, the main and lateral veins of the leaves turn yellow, leading to premature leaf drop. It is essential to monitor boron levels carefully to avoid both deficiency and toxicity, ensuring optimal growth and productivity in peach trees.
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