How to Grow Nectarine

A warm-season fruit for the home garden across the warmer US.

Nectarine is a rewarding warm-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Plant Nectarine in spring once the soil has warmed and all frost has passed. In the warmest regions a second crop is possible in late summer. See your region on the nectarine page for exact timing.

Varieties

UFQueen, Low-chill UF nectarine (Florida nurseries)
Suncoast, Low-chill, productive (Florida nurseries)

How to grow it

Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
Spacing: about 400 cm (157 in) between plants.
Sowing: sow about 30 cm deep.
Water: roughly 15 L per plant every 3 days in hot weather.

Pests & problems

Watch for Curly leaf, Scale and Borer. In humid regions, Peach leaf curl, Brown rot and Bacterial canker can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Nectarine is usually ready to harvest within roughly 12 months once established. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant nectarine where you garden.

See what to plant this month

Pick your region for a month-by-month calendar tuned to your climate.

Find your region →