What is going on with my peach tree?

I’ve planted a peach tree (Selvatico di Rosegafero, which is a local and ancient, resistant peach variety) in early spring this year. It survived a serious drought this spring (as due to the Covid lockdown I wasn’t allowed to visit the property to water the trees), which was great! I bought this tree from a sale as it was the last tree from the stock and not the nicest of specimen, so I wasn’t confident the tree would survive. Nevertheless it seems to have survived the drought with flying colours, and even has 3 peaches growing healthily even though the tree only has one branch. But now last time I checked the tree I’m noticing several spots on the tree that have sticky sap on them. I haven’t spotted any insects on the tree (although there are anthills nearby), and I didn’t damage the tree myself as far as I’m aware.
Anyone know what this is and how I should treat it?

That is probably peach tree gummosis. It is caused by several different causes like stress, insects, etc.

Here is an article that will help explain:

https://homeguides.sfgate.com/sap-run-out-peach-tree-54597.html

I love old fruit tree varieties, sounds like a neat one!

I would guess that it is probably either from a peach tree borer or I bet it is probably a minor disease issue.

You can probably tell which it is by removing the sap. If there is a small hole, it's probably a borer. I've used a paper clip unfolded and stuck it in the hole to kill the borer.

If their is no hole, it is probably a minor disease issue.

I've seen a peach tree of mine recover from borers and and a cherry tree recover from a bad disease issue with no pruning or spraying anything.

I would check on how much water the tree is getting, as too much or too little could stress the tree, but peach trees seem to especially dislike it to be too wet. Soil can be mounded up around the tree to help with this if it's in a really wet spot.

Adding a good leaf mulch this Fall should really add lots of organic matter to the soil and boost the soil fertility. It'll help provide lots of beneficial nutrients that will help the tree naturally fight off pests and diseases. Soil high in organic matter will also both drain well, but also retain water at a great balance too, which can really help the plant thrive.

It looks like you've got a great tree, hope you get some tasty peaches soon!