Crosby (peach cultivar)

Prunus persica Crosby
'Crosby' cultivar in The Peaches of New York, 1917
Species	Prunus persica
Origin	United States (particularly in the northeastern and mid-Atlantic regions)

The "Crosby" peach is a notable cultivar of Prunus persica, the common peach. While not as widely discussed in modern popular culture as some other varieties, it holds historical significance in peach cultivation, particularly for its hardiness and late-season ripening.

"Crosby" peaches are typically hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 5-9. This indicates their ability to withstand winter temperatures down to -20°F (-29°C) in Zone 5.

History and origin

The exact origin of the "Crosby" peach is not extensively documented. However, historical horticultural texts, such as "The Peaches of New York" published in 1917, do mention the "Crosby" peach. This suggests it was a recognized and cultivated variety by the early 20th century in the United States, particularly in regions like New York, where extensive peach cultivation was undertaken. It appears to be a variety known for its suitability in certain growing conditions, including its cold hardiness.

The name "Crosby" might derive from a specific individual or location associated with its development or popularization. While some sources mention a "Sergeant Crosby" in New Zealand who made "Peachgrove Road" famous by easily collecting peaches from a tree, this appears unrelated to the horticultural origin of the peach cultivar itself.

Cultivation

"Crosby" generally requires between 600 and 1000 chill hours (based on other peach varieties in zones 5-9) during dormancy to properly set fruit. Its chill hour requirements have not been properly tested, however. Its late blooming habit makes it well-suited for regions where late frosts are a concern after chill hours have been met.