Hardired Nectarine

If you live in a colder part of the country, you might think the idea of growing delicious nectarines is not for you. If so, think again, because this one is definitely for you. As its name suggests, the Hardired Nectarine was bred specially for northern gardeners – it was created in Canada – and is likely the most cold-tolerant of all nectarines, growing even in zone 4. It does need a good winter chill – at least 800 chill hours – so although it would grow in hotter zones, it isn’t a great choice for the South. Northern gardeners, though, will delight in this tree, which matures around 12 to 15 feet tall, with the attractive long, narrow leaves typical of peaches, and large, pink flowers in spring. And yes, it is a peach, just like all nectarines, just one with smooth skin. The fruits are medium-sized, with a beautiful red skin, and sweet, juicy, delicious yellow skin that comes off the stone quite easily. You get a full crop from just one tree, as this plant is completely self-pollinating. Perfect for eating fresh, baking or canning, you too can enjoy home-grown peaches with this superb variety.

• Number one choice for northern gardeners – grows in zone 4
• Compact, self-fertile tree perfect for smaller yards
• Ripens in early August – perfect for summer eating
• Excellent sweet flavor, ideal for fresh eating or baking
• Beautiful double pink blooms on bare branches in spring

You can grow the Hardired Nectarine in a sheltered spot in zones 4 and 5 – planted at the foot of a south-facing wall, and spread out as an espalier would be ideal there. It also grows in warmer zones, but be sure you have 800 chill hours during winter, as that is necessary for good growth. Plant in well-drained soil. Nectarines prefer a lighter soil tending towards sandy, and heavy clay is not so suitable. Try planting on a mound if you have heavier soil. Water regularly, and while the tree itself is drought tolerant, watering up to harvest is advised for a good crop. Be sure to thin out the fruit, leaving just one in each cluster, and spacing them at least 4 inches apart on the stems, or you will harvest a poor crop of tiny fruit that is mostly seed. Begin pruning while young, developing either an espalier on a wall, or for a free-standing tree aim for an open vase shape, with 4 or 5 main branches and an open center. This variety has good resistance to bacterial rot and brown spot, but not to peach leafcurl, so you may need to use some sprays to protect your tree.