Peach Tree Fruit Rot at Pit: Pollination Issue, Not Disease

Elberta peaches in NC and CA look fine outside but have brown, rotten flesh around pit. Owner asks for disease ID and prevention.

Assessment

Reddish-brown around pit is normal in ripe peaches. If no off-smell or mushy texture, it's likely not rot.

If Truly Abnormal

• Poor pollination can cause incomplete fruit development.
• Tree may need a compatible pollinator variety.
• Same variety nearby may not cross-pollinate.

Research peach pollination requirements; consider adding a different variety.