Position
Full sunlight helps to prevent the tree from contracting diseases. The sunshine also helps with producing sweet, delicious fruits. Nectarine trees, known as one of the stone fruit varieties, require cold winters.
Give it about 6 metres’ space to allow it to grow without being hindered. Use companion plants like legumes because these attract the right pollinators and help to keep the soil fertile.
Size
This tree reaches a mature height of about 5 metres and its canopy has a width 4 metres.
Soil Type
Soils that are well-draining but still manage to retain some moisture are best for nectarine trees. The only soils that do not work well are dense or heavy. A slightly acidic pH of between 6.0 and 7.0 is best for nectarine trees.
Watering
Newly planted nectarine trees need consistent moisture for root establishment. Mature trees are drought-tolerant but still require regular watering, about 2-3cm per week. Water deeply to encourage deep root growth. Drip irrigation systems and soaker hoses are effective for providing consistent moisture. Water at the base of the tree to avoid wet foliage and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
Mulch
Apply organic mulch to your nectarine tree all year round.
Use from 2 to 5 centimetres of pine bark mulch to protect the roots from UV damage and drying out. It retains moisture, and maintains an optimal pH. Do not let the mulch touch the plant stem, as it may cause infection or rot.
Fertilising
Apply our slow-release all-plant fertiliser. Apply 1 teaspoon every 4-5 months. The roots will absorb what they need.
Alternatively, apply a balanced fertiliser (such as 10-10-10) in early spring before new growth begins. Thereafter fertilise annually in early spring.
Pruning
The best time to prune nectarine trees is during winter dormancy to minimize disease risk. Light summer pruning can manage growth and improve light penetration, but heavy pruning should be avoided. Cut away dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Fruit trees benefit from an open-center (vase-shaped) structure. Remove inner branches to allow light and air to penetrate the tree’s center. Remove crossing or rubbing branches. For young trees, establish a strong framework; for mature trees, maintain the desired shape. When making cuts, cut back to a healthy bud and at a slight angle to promote healing. If the tree is getting too tall or wide, prune it to maintain a manageable size.
Remove no more than 20-30% of the tree’s canopy at one time. Over-pruning can stress the tree and reduce fruit production.
Thinning
Thinning fruit on nectarine trees is essential for producing healthy, high-quality fruit. When trees bear too much fruit, they can become stressed, leading to smaller, weaker fruits that are more prone to disease.
Thin the fruit in late spring to early summer, when the fruit is marble-sized. Avoid thinning too early to prevent unnecessary fruit drop.
Focus on removing smaller or poorly positioned fruits, especially those clustered together, leaving about 10 to 15 cm between each nectarine. Also, remove any fruit showing signs of pests or disease to prevent spreading issues.
Pests
Keep an eye out for pests like aphids, mites, and scale insects that can infest plum trees. Watch for signs of infestation and remove fallen fruit and debris to maintain good garden hygiene.
Treat promptly or preferably use preventative measures by spray with agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM Control)
Spray EM Control regularly as a preventive against fruit flies. Start spraying the leaves as soon as they regrow in Spring and continue when they start fruit bearing.
Harvest
Pluck your scrumptious, sweet fruit when the skin is a bright orange-red colour and the flesh is soft close to the stalk.
