Position
Full sunlight helps to prevent the tree from contracting diseases. The sunshine also helps with producing sweet, delicious fruits. Nectarine trees, a type of stone fruit, require cold winters.
Allow about a six-month space to allow the tree to grow without being hindered. Use companion plants like legumes, as they attract suitable pollinators and help keep the soil fertile.
Soil
Summer Early trees do best in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
Superfrass (R25 per bag) is a natural, high-quality organic growth enhancer and pesticide that you could add when planting.
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 tree’s base to avoid wet foliage and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
Mulching
Apply organic mulch to your nectarine tree throughout the year.
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
Pruning is essential for maintaining shape and encouraging airflow, which helps prevent diseases.
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.
Pests and Diseases
Nectarines can be susceptible to diseases such as peach leaf curl and brown rot. Use organic products as needed to control pests, and practice good garden hygiene by removing fallen fruit from the soil beneath the tree.
Agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM Control) will assist in either prevention or after the fact. If you already have aphids or mites, wash the tree with a harsh hosing, and when dry, spray with Neem oil or EM Control. Nectarine trees need regular spraying before the onset of fruit and immediately after buds turn to small fruit. Continue regular organic spraying for high-quality fruit.
Thinning
Thinning fruit on nectarine trees is essential for producing healthy, high-quality fruit. When trees grow too much fruit, they can become stressed, resulting in smaller, weaker fruits that are more susceptible 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 approximately 10 to 15 cm of space between each nectarine. Also, remove any fruit showing signs of pests or disease to prevent the spread of issues.
