Best nectarines

Nectarine is a peachy peach that belongs to the category of early-growing, short-lived plants.

It is characterized by intensive growth and early maturation of the buds.

After flowering, you can get a crop of this plant in a few months. The fruit is delicious, juicy and sweet.

Today, there are a huge number of nectarine varieties that have their own characteristics.

Nectarine 4

This variety belongs to the category of medium-sized trees that have a rounded shape.

Trees varieties Nectarine 4:

• frost-resistant;
• drought-resistant;
• unpretentious in care.

After planting, the tree begins to bear fruit in the third year. It has rounded fruits, the average weight of which is 150 grams.

The pulp of the fruit is characterized by an orange-yellow color and a delicate fibrous consistency.

Gardener's note: Nectarine 4 gives regular yields regardless of weather conditions.

Crimson Gold

Crimson Gold is an open peach. It belongs to the category of hybrids. The tree is medium-sized, winter-hardy and high-yielding.

This variety is characterized by large fruits, the average weight of which is 130 grams of round shape. Nectarines of this variety have a yellow color and a blurred striped red blush.

The pulp of the fruit is characterized by delicate fiber, juiciness and high taste. The variety ripens early.

Caring for him consists in timely watering, fertilizing and weeding. This will ensure timely plant growth as well as high yields.

Crimean

The Krymchanin variety is characterized by compact, medium-sized trees. Harvesting takes place at the end of summer. The tree has rounded fruits weighing 190 grams.

The skin of the fruit is characterized by medium density and lack of pubescence. The fruits have a blurred blush that covers almost the entire fruit.

The pulp is characterized by:

• medium density;
• yellow;
• juiciness.

After planting the plant, the variety begins to bear fruit in 2-3 years and is characterized by a high, regular yield. Every year, from one tree, you can collect from 40 to 50 kilograms of fruit.

An important point: fruits of nectarine Crimean are characterized by high transportability, as well as good winter hardiness and drought resistance.

Columnar

Nectarine Columnar is a short compact tree. Its diameter is only half a meter.

Fruits on the tree are very dense. After the seedling is rooted, fruiting begins in the second year.

Thanks to the small crown of the plant, it can be grown in areas with limited space. The nectarine of this variety is characterized by large fruits and fertility, which allows the gardener to get a high yield.

Big Top and Nikitinsky 85

Nectarine Big Top

Nectarine Big Top is a new plant variety that has been recently bred. Like the Nikitinsky 85 variety, it is characterized by high yields and large fruits.

These varieties have medium-sized trees. Trees of both varieties with a rounded crown.

These varieties of nectarine have oval-shaped fruits with sweet pulp, which is very easy to separate from the stone.

Gardener's note: varieties Big Top and Nikitinsky are characterized by early ripening, which allows you to get a harvest in the middle of summer.

Vang varieties

Nectarine Wang 3

The varieties of nectarine Vang 3 and Vang 8 are really the best, as they combine high productivity and ease of care.

They are characterized by an average ripening period. These plant varieties have a delicate yellow pulp, pleasant taste and aroma.

Wang nectarine varieties are characterized by resistance to pests and diseases, which greatly facilitates the process of growing them.

Trees need a sunny spot and moderate temperatures, as well as regular watering.

Harco and Flavor Top

Nectarine Harko

Nectarine varieties Harco and Flavor Top are characterized by an average ripening period.

The trees are medium-sized, which greatly facilitates the process of caring for them, they begin to bear fruit very early.

Despite the large size of the fruits, their weight is average and is about 160 grams.

The nectarines of these varieties are characterized by good transportability.

There are a huge number of varieties of nectarine, which allows the gardener to choose the most optimal option for planting on his site according to his taste. (By the way, fig nectarine and peach may be an interesting option for you.)

Watch a video in which a specialist explains in detail the difference between nectarine and peach:

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Nectarines are often found on store shelves, but this culture is still a rare guest on the sites of Russian gardeners. Until recently, the climate simply did not allow them to grow, but the selection does not stand still. Now there are frost-resistant varieties that successfully take root and bear fruit not only in the southern subtropical regions, but also in the European part of Russia. The culture is quite capricious and demanding in care, but if the recommendations regarding agricultural technology are followed, it is quite possible to get a harvest.

What does nectarine look like?

Nectarine is a common type of peach. It is especially popular with those who grow fruit on an industrial scale. The fruits tolerate transportation well, are stored longer, and retain a presentable appearance. Taste qualities are also on top - this is evidenced by the name, which comes from the word "nectar". The fruit is very sweet due to its high sugar content.

Nectarines are grown commercially in many countries around the world

The "native" climate for culture is the tropics and subtropics. Therefore, until recently, one could only dream of growing it on the territory of Russia. But now it is quite possible. Breeders have bred frost-resistant varieties and hybrids that take root not only in the Crimea, the Caucasus, the Black Sea region, but also in central Russia, in the Volga region. Mature trees are able to survive frost down to -30 ° C. But flower buds do not tolerate even short-term recurrent spring frosts - they die if the temperature drops to -2 ° C.

Nectarine began to gain popularity relatively recently, only at the end of the twentieth century, when large-fruited varieties appeared, superior in taste and other characteristics to ordinary peaches.

The leaves of the nectarine are narrow and long

The tree is relatively short, it grows up to 5–7 m. The crown is neat, spherical or elongated, 3-4 m in diameter. The leaves are bright green, narrow, lanceolate, the edge is carved with denticles. Flowering is very abundant, and the buds bloom earlier than the leaves. Accordingly, the nectarine tree not only bears the harvest, but also decorates the garden. Flowering occurs in early or mid-May.

The tree for most varieties of nectarine is low and fairly compact, a place for it can be allocated even in a small garden area

Nectarine differs from the classic peach in the smoothness of the skin and its richer color. The shape of the fruit is almost spherical, with a characteristic "seam" on the side. As a rule, nectarines are somewhat larger and sweeter than peaches, but their flesh is stiffer. Also, this culture, especially its modern varieties, is less likely to suffer from diseases and pests. Even trees frozen in winter recover quickly over the summer.

The flesh of the nectarines is tougher than that of regular peaches, but it is sweeter and juicier.

Video: how peach differs from nectarine

The history of the origin of nectarine is still a mystery. Most botanists believe that this is a product of natural selection, a complex interspecific hybrid created by nature itself. In the process of pollination, in their opinion, peach, plum, apricot and even quince and almonds took part. And possibly other plants belonging to the Pink family. This point of view is supported by the fact that from time to time on peach trees, without any participation from the farmer, "bald" fruits suddenly ripen. But the facts of the opposite are not noted.

There is another point of view, according to which nectarine is the result of deliberate crossing of a peach with a plum. It is confirmed by the fact that this fruit tree has been cultivated in China for more than 2 thousand years, but in the rest of the world the existence of culture became known only in the 16th century.

The blooming nectarine tree looks very graceful, and also attracts pollinating insects.

Most varieties of nectarine ripen at the same time as peaches, which takes 3 to 5 months. The culture is distinguished by its early maturity - the first harvest is harvested within 3-4 years after the tree is planted in open ground. But the period of the tree's productive life is short - no more than 30 years. Average yield is 30-50 kg per adult plant.

Nectarine is not only tasty, but also very healthy. First of all, we can note the high content of vitamins A and C, calcium. Moreover, the benefits remain even after heat treatment. The calorie content of the fruit is low, so this is a very pleasant addition to any diet. The fiber and amino acids contained in fruits normalize the digestion process, helping the body to assimilate and process fatty foods, remove toxins and toxins from the intestines, have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system, being an effective prevention of atherosclerosis and lowering high blood pressure. With a decoction of the leaves, adherents of traditional medicine treat migraines and joint diseases. Nectarine seed oil is widely used in cosmetology.

Varieties popular with gardeners

There are many varieties of nectarine, but mostly large-fruited ones are popular with gardeners.

The most commonly grown varieties are:

• Stark red gold. Nectarine, originally from the USA, one of the "clones" of the Sangrand variety, the result of free pollination. Fruits are large, one-dimensional, regular in shape, weighing 175-210 g, ripen in the second decade of August. The pulp is sunny yellow in color, dense, very sweet, the stone is easily separated from it. The skin is bright scarlet;
• Nectarine-4. Bred in the USA in the 60s of the last century. Differs in good frost resistance and high immunity to fungal diseases. The harvest ripens in the first decade of August. Fruits are medium in size (about 150 g), almost round. The stone is small, the pulp is dark yellow, the skin is purple.Brings a harvest no matter how lucky the weather is in the summer;
• Fantasy (Fantasy). Differs in growth rate and abundance of flowering. The variety is highly winter-resistant, rarely suffers from diseases and pests. Fruit weight varies from 130 to 180 g. The skin is golden with vague spots of reddish blush, the flesh is pale yellow with scarlet veins. This is practically the standard for taste. The variety is one of the most popular among industrial producers. The fruits are used to make candied fruits and juice;
• Ruby-7. The variety is very popular due to its high yield and excellent taste of the fruit. Belongs to the category of late - nectarines ripen in the last decade of August. The fruits are round in shape, with a dark scarlet skin, weigh about 170 g. The pulp is bright yellow, sometimes with pinkish veins. It is very juicy and tender, it literally melts in your mouth. Winter hardiness is high, but the tree is often attacked by pathogenic fungi and harmful insects;
• Scythian. The variety is one of the many achievements of the Kiev Institute of Horticulture. The tree is 6–7 m high, the crown is elongated, in the form of a pyramid. Early flowering, in mid-April, but flower buds tolerate return frosts well. The peel of the fruit is yellow, but it is practically invisible under an almost continuous layer of deep red blush. The average weight of nectarine is 110–150 g;
• Crimean. The variety has a very high drought resistance, it tolerates heat well. The tree is low, with a compact rounded crown. Fruits are almost regular spherical, one-dimensional, weighing 160–170 g. The skin is golden, glossy, shiny, dense. Thanks to this, the fruits tolerate transportation well;
• Lola. The variety is native to Uzbekistan and has a very high sugar content. The nectarines are small, weighing about 90 g. The skin is greenish-yellow, covered with spots of a reddish blush. The pulp is pale yellow or almost white, fibrous. A significant drawback is susceptibility to powdery mildew and moniliosis;
• Favorite. A variety of Ukrainian selection. The tree is up to 4 m high, the crown is spreading. The fruits are large, weighing 170-180 g. The skin is yellowish-creamy, with a pinkish blush. The taste is sweet with a piquant sourness;
• Stark sanglow. A very popular variety, especially at home in the United States. The tree is 4–5 m high, the crown is in the form of an inverted pyramid. The fruits are asymmetrical (one half is noticeably larger than the other), with a purple-burgundy skin. The pulp is juicy, very sweet, bright yellow in color. It extremely rarely suffers from diseases and pests typical for the culture, never affected by powdery mildew;
• Crimson Gold. The most widespread variety in Ukraine. It is appreciated for its consistently high yield, early maturity, good frost resistance and amazing fruit taste. Nectarines are not too large, weighing up to 120 g. The yellowish skin is covered with spots of crimson or raspberry blush. The pulp is very juicy;
• Big top. One of the latest achievements of breeders. It stands out for its large-fruited and high yield. The tree is 3-4 m high, the crown is compact, round. The harvest ripens at the very beginning of August or even at the end of July. The fruits are oval, with a dark scarlet skin and yellowish juicy pulp. The bone is separated from it very easily. The average weight of the fetus is 200–220 g;
• Hemus. A vigorous tree with a spreading crown. Average winter hardiness. Fruits are round, one-dimensional, rather small (90–120 g). The taste is balanced, sweet and sour. The pulp is juicy, very aromatic. The skin is pinkish red;
• Harco. The tree is compact, low. Fruiting already in the 2-3rd year after disembarkation. Nectarines weighing 100–120 g, dark burgundy skin, bright yellow pulp, very juicy. Productivity is high, winter hardiness is good;
• Arctic snow. Nectarines weighing 180-200 g. The yellow-orange skin is completely hidden by a bright scarlet blush. The pulp is pale yellow, almost white, very aromatic. Productivity - up to 60 kg from an adult tree;
• May diamond.It is appreciated for its excellent taste and large size of the fruit. The average mass of nectarine is 220 g, the skin is very dark red with a purple tint. The harvest ripens at the end of August. The shape of the fruit varies from almost round to elongated oval;
• Rebus-028. A very early variety originally from Italy. It is valued for its high winter hardiness, genetically built immunity to most common fungal diseases and productivity. Fruits weighing about 200 g, elongated. The skin is bright scarlet, the flesh is yellow, dense, but very juicy;
• Poseidon. Achievement of Russian breeders. Fruits are small, weighing 80–90 g. The skin is yellow with a pink-red blush in the form of thin strokes. The pulp of the same color with reddish veins, sweet and sour taste, very juicy;
• September Queen. Late ripening variety. The pale green skin is almost completely hidden by the raspberry blush. Medium-sized fruits (150–170 g). The pulp is creamy yellow, sweet and sour, very juicy and aromatic.

Photo gallery: popular varieties of nectarine

Planting procedure and preparation for it

Nectarine is a southern culture, so the main thing it needs is sunlight and warmth. It is advisable to choose a place for a seedling so that from the north at some distance there is a building wall, a fence, another natural or artificial barrier that creates protection from gusts of cold wind, without shading the tree.

The southern or southeastern slope of a gentle hill works well. But any lowlands are immediately excluded. There is rain and melt water for a long time, cold damp air accumulates. Nectarine does not like dampness at the roots, therefore, places where groundwater come close to the surface are not suitable. The culture prefers light, but fertile soil (loam, sandy loam). In a heavy clayey, silty, peaty substrate, nectarine takes root very poorly and practically does not bear fruit. He also does not tolerate saline soil at all.

Nectarine can be planted in autumn and spring. At the same time, they are guided by the climate in a particular region. If it is moderate, the only option is a spring planting. Over the summer, the tree will grow strong enough to survive the winter. When disembarking in the fall, it is likely that the cold will come much earlier than provided by the calendar. This option is only suitable for southern regions. The optimal time for the procedure is the first two decades of September. Before frost, the tree will have time to prepare for wintering.

Saplings over 2 years old do not take root in a new place too willingly

When planting several nectarine trees at the same time, at least 3 m (preferably 3.5-4 m) are left between them. The interval between planting rows is 4–5 m. It is advisable to place them away from peaches and any other plants from the Pink family, so as not to provoke the spread of pathogenic fungi and deter pest attacks.

Bad predecessors are any nightshade and garden strawberries.

The optimum depth and diameter of the planting pit for nectarine is about 70 cm. If support is needed, a stake is driven into the bottom in advance, the height of which is at least twice the height of the seedling. The pit is filled by a third with fertile soil extracted from it (top 15–20 cm), mixed with 10–15 liters of humus or rotted compost, 150 g of simple superphosphate and 80 g of potassium sulfate. Then it must be covered with something waterproof and allowed to stand for at least 2 weeks.

For spring planting, the pit is prepared in the fall.

A landing pit for nectarine is always prepared in advance.

One-year or two-year-old nectarine seedlings take root best of all. They must be purchased in nurseries or in specialized stores. Buying from unknown people at fairs is a big risk. It is desirable that the seedlings be grown in the same area where the garden plot is located. Such trees are better adapted to the climate in the region.

Planting nectarine, like any fruit tree, is best done together - it's more convenient this way.

Planting a nectarine seedling in the ground has very few distinctive features compared to a similar procedure for other fruit trees. It is imperative to monitor the position of the root collar without falling asleep. After planting, the tree needs abundant watering (40-50 liters of water at room temperature) and radical pruning (the central conductor is shortened by 15-20 cm, side shoots, if any, by about half). Then it is advisable to add humus or fertile soil to the trunk, as if hilling the tree.

After planting, the nectarine must be watered well.

Crop care recommendations

Nectarine is a rather demanding plant to care for, so it is advisable to first familiarize yourself with agrotechnical recommendations.

Watering

Nectarine is a moisture-loving plant, but when water stagnates, rot quickly develops at the roots. Its root system is superficial; it is not able to draw water from deep soil layers. In extreme heat, if there is no precipitation for a long time, the tree is watered 2-3 times a week, spending 40-50 liters of water per adult plant. In other cases, once every 10-12 days is enough. Mulch will help trap moisture in the soil and also save time on weeding.

The root system of nectarine is superficial, so it is watered as soon as the topsoil dries out

About a month before harvesting, watering is stopped. This will help prevent cracking of the fruit, improve its taste and increase its size by about a third.

If the autumn is dry, moisture-charging watering is carried out in mid-October so that the tree can properly prepare for winter. An adult plant consumes about 80 liters of water.

Fertilization

A properly prepared planting pit has enough nutrients for the next season. Fertilizers begin to be applied from the second year.

1. In early spring, the soil in the trunk circle is thoroughly loosened, at the same time applying 10-15 g of any nitrogen-containing fertilizer per 1 m². An alternative is spraying the tree with a 7% carbamide solution. Such a procedure, if carried out before the kidneys swell, helps to get rid of the spores of pathogenic fungi, to destroy the eggs and larvae of pests. Once every 2-3 years, you can add 25-30 liters of humus or rotted compost to the soil to increase its fertility.
2. From the moment the ovaries are formed, foliar dressing is carried out every 2-3 weeks by spraying the leaves with a solution of potassium sulfate (25 g per 10 l of water). Thanks to this procedure, the sugar content in the pulp increases, the color of the fruit becomes more saturated.
3. 2-3 weeks after harvesting, the soil in the near-trunk circle is loosened and 25-30 g of phosphorus and potassium fertilizers are applied. Complex preparations (ABA, Autumn) can also be used. Nitrogen is strictly prohibited at this time of the year.

Pruning

Pruning for nectarine is a very important procedure. If you neglect it, the fruits gradually "move" to the very tops of the branches, the crown thickens, the shoots located below and in the middle dry and die off. Moreover, flower buds are formed only on the shoots of this year.

The optimal time for pruning is from the moment the buds swell until the end of flowering. It is necessary to get rid of all the shoots that have frozen over the winter, broken under the weight of the snow. Weak, deformed, poorly located branches are also cut off, thickening the crown, growing down and into it. It should be evenly illuminated and warmed up by the sun.

When pruning, they get rid of weak, deformed, damaged branches

Another important point is the thinning of fruit ovaries. The procedure is carried out when they reach approximately the size of a bean. First, you need to cut off all small and deformed nectarines, then leave no more than five pieces on each shoot at approximately equal intervals (15–20 cm). In this case, the fruits will be larger and sweeter.

Don't forget about formative pruning. Most often, the crown of peach and nectarine is given a "bowl" configuration, which is characterized by the absence of a pronounced central shoot. The height of the trunk before branching is limited to 60–70 cm, then 1–2 tiers of 4–5 shoots are formed, located around it at approximately equal intervals. It is desirable that they move away from the trunk at an angle of approximately 45-50º. On each such shoot, 4–5 branches of the second and third order are left, choosing those that grow upward. The rest of the growth is removed.

Formation of the crown of nectarine in the form of a "bowl" or "vase" allows you to create a tree, evenly illuminated and warmed by the sun

Non-fruiting shoots are recommended to be pinched 10-15 cm annually to stimulate their further branching.

Preparing for winter

Nectarine is a southern plant, so even in regions with a warm subtropical climate, it is better to play it safe and properly prepare it for winter. This is especially true for young seedlings under the age of 5 years.

The trunk circle is cleaned of debris and mulched with humus or peat chips, creating a layer 20–25 cm thick. The procedure is carried out in dry weather so as not to provoke the development of rot.

The trunk is whitewashed before the first fork and the lower third of the branches. You can use store-bought formulations or a self-prepared mixture of water with slaked lime, powdered clay, copper sulfate and office glue. Then the base of the trunk is wrapped with several layers of burlap, any breathable covering material, or just nylon tights. You can place branches of any coniferous trees between them - this will protect the wood from rodent attacks.

Mulch and whitewashing of trunks are a must when preparing a garden for winter

On young seedlings, cardboard boxes of suitable size are put on, stuffing them with sawdust, shavings, and scraps of newsprint. It is undesirable to use straw - mice often settle in it. You can also build around a "hut" of several rails, covering it with sacking or spruce branches.

Video: growing and caring for nectarines

Nectarine breeding methods

Amateur gardeners mainly propagate nectarine vegetatively - by grafting. Only this method fully guarantees the preservation of varietal traits. In principle, you can grow a new tree from a stone, but you will have to wait a long time for the harvest from it and it is completely impossible to predict the result. As a rule, there are few fruits and they are quite small. This is mainly done by professional breeders who want to develop a new variety. For amateur gardeners, nectarine grown from a stone can be useful as a rootstock.

Nectarine grafting

Peach, apricot or almond is used as rootstock for nectarine. If the soil or climate for the culture is not very suitable, take cherry plum or plum. You can graft as a whole stalk (the top of the shoot about 30 cm long with leaves cut by 2/3), and a single growth bud (the so-called budding).

In the first case, the thickness of the scion and rootstock should be approximately the same. The made oblique cuts are combined or the scion is inserted into the split on the rootstock shoot. In the second, the growth bud, cut off together with the “shield” of tissues about 2 mm thick and 2-3 cm wide, is inserted into a Y-, T- or X-shaped incision in the cortex. The tool must be disinfected and sharpened. It is advisable to use a scalpel or razor blade.

Split grafting is used if the scion and rootstock differ greatly in diameter.

Then the whole structure is securely fixed with electrical tape, adhesive plaster or a special grafting tape. Whether the procedure was successful can be judged in 2-3 months. A new shoot should begin to form from the bud, and young leaves should be on the cuttings. In this case, all lateral shoots on the rootstock below the grafting site are cut to the point of growth.

Budding is a rather complicated method of vaccination, requiring a certain experience from the gardener.

Seed nectarine

The seeds are extracted from large and ripe fruits. Necessarily the absence of cracks and other damage on them. Nectarines should not be purchased, but grown in the same area. Before planting, they are soaked for 3 days in water at room temperature, changing it twice a day, and then dried well. You can add potassium permanganate to it to a pale pink color (for disinfection) or any biostimulant (to increase germination).

Nectarine seeds must be soaked before planting

They are planted in the same autumn in a garden bed, making furrows 5–6 cm deep. The distance between the seeds is at least 20 cm. The trenches are covered with humus, watered abundantly, covered with fallen leaves, mowed grass or sawdust.

You can postpone the procedure for the spring, but in this case stratification is required - during the winter the bones are stored in the refrigerator, in a container filled with wet peat or sand.

In the spring, the shelter is removed from the garden bed, and the soil is tightened with plastic wrap until shoots appear. Germination rate is no more than 20%, therefore, planting material must be stocked in excess. Practice shows that in late-ripening varieties this figure is slightly higher.

When planting nectarine seeds, remember that the germination rate is only 20%.

As it dries, the bed is moderately watered from a spray bottle. As soon as the seedlings hatch, the shelter is removed. Further care for them consists in gentle loosening of the soil, regular watering, feeding with humus diluted with water every 2-3 weeks. To prevent the development of fungal diseases, they are sprayed with a solution of any fungicide of biological origin (Tiovit, Ridomil-gold) with the same frequency.

Diseases and pests typical for crops

Nectarine, like peach, suffers from diseases and pests quite often. Many modern varieties have high immunity, but breeders are not yet able to completely protect them from these misfortunes. Therefore, special attention should be paid to prevention and proper care of plants.

Common diseases of nectarine:

• powdery mildew. The first sign is a grayish-white bloom on the leaves, starting from the lowest ones. Gradually it “thickens” and changes color to brownish brown. Affected leaves and shoots stop growing, turn black and die off. The winter hardiness of the tree is sharply reduced. For prevention, swollen kidneys are sprayed with 2% copper sulfate or Bordeaux liquid. During the growing season, the soil in the trunk circle is sprinkled with crushed chalk, wood ash, colloidal sulfur, then loosened well. The leaves are sprayed with kefir or whey diluted with water. To combat the disease, Quadris, Bayleton, Topsin-M, Topaz, and other fungicides are used;
• curliness of leaves. The most common nectarine and peach disease affects young leaves. The light green swellings that appear on them gradually change color to rusty or red-brown, and are covered with a layer of waxy coating. The leaves turn black, dry and fall off. Shoots turn yellow, thicken and deformed. For prophylaxis, in early spring and autumn after harvesting, nectarine is treated with HOM or Skor, the soil in the trunk circle is sprinkled with tobacco dust. All affected leaves and branches are immediately cut and burned. Folk remedies do not give an effect, therefore, Abiga-Peak, Kuprozan are used to combat the disease;
• clasterosporium disease. Multiple small rounded beige spots with a bright crimson or burgundy border appear on the leaves. After about 12-15 days, the infected tissues die off and holes form. Leaves dry and fall off.Then the disease spreads to the fruits - the spots grow on them, their surface hardens, then this crust falls off, leaving a depression from which gum oozes. For prophylaxis, leaf buds in the green cone phase are sprayed with Nitrafen or 1% Bordeaux liquid. The procedure is repeated immediately after flowering and 2-3 weeks after harvest. At the first suspicious symptoms, use Kuproksat, Skor, Horus;
• moniliosis. Fruits develop brown-black, rapidly growing spots. Their surface is covered with small grayish-beige growths arranged in the form of concentric circles. The pulp darkens, becomes unpleasantly mealy, almost loses its taste. It is not recommended to eat such nectarines. Fruit ovaries are sprayed with 1% copper sulfate immediately after flowering. During the season, for prevention, you can use an infusion of wood ash. For the fight, fungicides of biological origin are used - Gamair, Trichodermin, Alirin-B, Fitosporin;
• cytosporosis. The flowers turn brown, dry, but do not fall off. The bark acquires an unnatural yellowish or brick tint, "peeling". Small dark growths appear on the affected areas - containers of fungal spores. Weakened trees especially often suffer from the disease, therefore the best prevention is competent care. The damaged areas of the bark are cut off. Wounds must be treated with 2% copper sulfate (folk remedy - gruel from sorrel leaves) and covered with garden varnish or covered with oil paint in several layers. In autumn, the affected trees are sprayed with a solution of boric acid and zinc sulfate (1-2 g per 1 liter of water);
• scab. A plant affected by scab will most likely not die, but the quantity and quality of the fruit will sharply decrease. Most often old trees suffer from scab. The skin of the fruit is covered with inconspicuous light spots, which are gradually covered with a layer of velvety olive bloom. Then it changes color to black-gray. The tissues in these places harden, the surface of the spots cracks, the nectarines are deformed and fall off. For prophylaxis in early spring, the soil in the near-stem circle is sprayed with a 7-10% solution of urea or ammonium nitrate, and the tree itself, until the buds have blossomed, is sprayed with Quickly or 3% Bordeaux liquid. From folk remedies, a solution of ordinary table salt is suitable - 1 kg per 10 liters of water. All fruits affected by scab are collected and destroyed. Any fungicide is used to combat the disease.

Photo gallery: how diseases typical of nectarine manifest themselves

Often attacked by nectarine and pests. Most often, the culture suffers from the following insects:

• plum moth. Greyish brown butterflies lay eggs in newly formed fruit ovaries. The larvae that emerge from them eat the flesh of the nectarines from the inside. Then they go outside, leaving droplets of amber liquid - gum on the skin of the damaged fruit. Affected nectarines fall off before they mature. The peak of activity of butterflies occurs at the beginning of summer. To scare them off, trees are sprayed with infusions of any herbs with a pungent odor. A good effect is given by special pheromone traps and sticky belts. The newly formed ovaries are treated with Karbofos. After about a month, the procedure is repeated. To combat adults, Lepidocid, Bitoxibacillin are used, with caterpillars - Fitoverm, Alatar, Kinmiks;
• aphid. Small insects stick to the underside of leaves, tops of shoots, flower buds and fruit ovaries. They feed on the sap of the plant, so its affected parts turn pale and dry out. At the same time, a sticky, colorless liquid and a powder-like black coating - a sooty fungus - appear. Any harsh odors are very unpleasant for aphids. Therefore, it can be scared off with the help of infusions of arrows of onion or garlic, wormwood, tops of tomatoes, marigolds, orange peel, mustard powder. The frequency of processing is once every 5-10 days.If there are still few pests, these same infusions will help get rid of them, but the trees will need to be sprayed 3-4 times a day. To combat aphids, any general action insecticides are used - Inta-Vir, Konfidor-Maxi, Iskra-Bio, Tanrek, Mospilan;
• shield. On the branches and on the inside of the leaves, rounded growths of a grayish-brown color appear. Gradually, they swell, the surrounding tissues acquire an unnatural reddish-yellow tint. Leaves turn brown and dry. For prevention, nectarine trees are sprayed with infusion of onion or garlic gruel, ground red pepper. Folk remedies in the fight against the scabbard are ineffective, the pest is reliably protected by a strong shell. It is better not to waste time and immediately use insecticides - Fufanon, Fosbecid, Actellik;
• miner moth. The larvae eat the tissue of the leaves from the inside, without going outside. From the outside, it looks like dug tunnels. For prophylaxis, at the end of spring, the soil in the trunk circle is spilled with a solution of Aktara or Aktellik. Traps are hung near the trees, sticky belts are put on the trunks. To combat caterpillars, BI-58, Karate, Konfidor-Maxi preparations are used.
• cherry weevil. Adults eat leaf buds, flower buds and fruit ovaries. Females lay eggs in the developing fruit, leaving a black "cork" on the surface. The larvae eat the bone and go outside, preparing for wintering. During spring, adults can be fought with, once every 2-3 days, simply shaking them off on oilcloth, cloth, newspaper spread under a tree. This is best done in the early morning, when the bugs are least active. Leaf, flower buds and fruit ovaries are sprayed with Karbofos or Trichlormetaphos. Folk remedy - infusion of chamomile pharmacy. To fight the larvae, use Aktar, Admiral, Spark Double effect.

Photo gallery: what pests dangerous for nectarine look like

Gardeners reviews

Growing nectarine in your own garden is a challenge. The cultural conditions are very different from the Russian climate. Therefore, competent and regular care is required. Now there are quite a few varieties adapted to conditions that are not entirely suitable for nectarine, so even a gardener, whose section is located in central Russia, can try to grow an exotic fruit.

27 years old, higher education in law, broad outlook and interest in a variety of topics.

In a sense, nectarine is a mysterious culture, or more precisely, a culture with a mysterious history. It appeared in European countries in comparison with other fruits recently - the first mentions of nectarine date back to the middle of the XIV century, although, according to some other sources, it has been cultivated in China for 2000 years. In the 17th century, it was already mentioned that there were at least 6 varieties of nectarines.

Description from history

Information about its origin is so contradictory that even experts do not agree on whether it arose naturally or artificially and what it really is.

Some refer to it as a “bare-fruited peach”, others as a “large-fruited plum” (by the way, under this name, by the way, you can still find its planting material on sale), in some literary sources nectarine is even declared a “peach variety” (although inside there are dozens of its own varieties of this culture). There are also claims that nectarine fruits can appear on ordinary peach trees, and vice versa.

However, there is also a counterargument here. In fact, these are not any "nectarines on a peach" and vice versa, but simply either peaches without pubescence (the first option), or nectarines in which it suddenly manifested itself, that is, we are talking about a separate trait that does not at all transform one culture into another ...According to modern experts, in addition to common peach, Chinese plum, apricot, and almond participated in the emergence of nectarine as a special plant and culture, in other words, it is a complex interspecific hybrid.

In our area, nectarine is a relatively rare culture and is still not well known among domestic gardeners. However, there is nothing surprising in this - large-fruited varieties of nectarine, superior in many respects to peach fruits, were bred only at the end of the 20th century, and the ones that existed earlier, although they had a number of indisputable advantages, were not particularly outstanding.

In recent years, nectarine fruits have increasingly begun to appear in markets and stores and have quickly gained popularity among customers, and therefore it is highly likely that this culture will win a worthy place in orchards.

Biological features

Nectarine looks pretty much like a peach. It is a pronounced, large tree 5-7 m tall. Blooms in April-May before the leaves appear. Leaves are lanceolate or broadly lanceolate. The fruits of nectarine are also similar in shape and size to the fruits of a peach and, like that of a peach, can have a separating or non-separating stone, but differ in the absence of pubescence and often in color, which can be from light yellow to dark cherry.

The flesh of the fruit is denser than that of a peach, and more often has a bright color. On average, the timing of their ripening also coincides with the timing of the ripening of the doggie fruit, but the early varieties begin to bear fruit 1-2 weeks earlier.

The tree begins to bear fruit on average 3-4 years after planting.
Like the peach, nectarine is a typical inhabitant of the subtropics, only partially adapted to a more temperate climate. It is very thermophilic and insufficiently winter-hardy in the northern and eastern regions of Ukraine, however, after frostbite it easily regenerates and over the summer gives new powerful growths, which allows expanding the boundaries of its cultivation towards the north. In addition, in comparison with peach, it has less resistance to fungal diseases.

Beneficial features

Chemically, nectarine fruits are very close to peach fruits and are used in a similar way (it is even easier to preserve them due to the absence of a tough skin), but their rich, sweet taste is almost guaranteed, their dietary properties are higher, and a higher dry matter content ensures their better transportability. The fruits of nectarine are low in calories and can be consumed without restrictions.

Due to its balanced chemical composition, nectarine fruits help to better absorb fatty foods, improve the secretory activity of the digestive glands and are useful for the prevention of atherosclerosis and hypertension.

At the same time, in many varieties, the bone is also edible, which, in turn, is very close in chemical composition to almond kernels. However, varieties with bitter, inedible seeds have the same similarity with another variety of almonds - bitter almonds, and just like it, the seeds can be processed into fatty oil, which is used in the soap making industry, as well as in perfumery and pharmaceutical industry. The shells of nectarine seeds are used for the production of activated carbon, and the wood is used for various crafts.

A decoction of nectarine leaves also has healing properties; in folk medicine it is recommended for headaches, some gastrointestinal diseases and rheumatism.

In addition, nectarine is very decorative and is a good honey plant.

The best varieties

Although in Ukraine (in particular, in the Nikitsky Botanical Garden), the selection of nectarine varieties is quite active today, planting stock of popular varieties of foreign selection is more often found on sale.

Arctic snow.The fruits are large, yellow-orange with a broad red blush over most of the fruit surface and with white flesh. Differs in good taste and high yield.

August red. The fruits are large, oval or round, with an extensive red (it can occupy up to 70% of the surface) blush on a yellow background, the flesh is yellow. Fruit shape from oval to round. The variety has a very good taste and strong aroma, by which the fruits of this variety are easy to recognize.

May diamond. Fruits are large, globular or broadly oval, become dark red even before full ripening, mature color - red-violet. The taste of the variety is assessed as excellent.

Red diamond. Fruits are elongated, most of the surface is red with yellow spots, the stone is well separated from the pulp. The taste is excellent.

Ruby diamond. Fruits are round, medium in size and larger, shiny, fiery red, very dense. The taste is excellent. The transportability is very good.

Summer grand. The fruits are large, orange-red. The bone is easily separated from the pulp. The taste is excellent. The transportability is very good.

Summer diamond. It differs from the previous variety in even more intense color and flavor nuances.

Flamekist. Fruits are round, with red-yellow spots on a greenish-yellow background; the flesh is red-yellow, darker around the stone. The bone is poorly separated from the pulp. The taste is very good. The disadvantage of the variety is insufficient keeping quality.

Growing

In general, the agrotechnology of growing nectarine almost coincides with that for peach.

Seat selection

For cultivation of nectarine, sandy loam and loamy soils are optimal, heavy clay soils are extremely undesirable. The groundwater level should not be high.

It is best to plant nectarine in areas with a southern orientation, so that the shadow from other trees obscures it for no more than 1.5-2 hours per daylight.

In addition, nectarine, if possible, should not be placed next to the plantings of an ordinary peach - their
the neighborhood increases the likelihood of nectarine infection with fungal diseases (including those from which the peach almost does not suffer).

Reproduction methods

Nectarine retains all varietal characteristics only when propagated by grafting. The seeds are relatively easy to grow, but the fruits are generally of poor quality.

Landing scheme, landing pit size
It depends very much on the variety (among them there are even creeping ones), but on average it is comparable to that for crops of similar sizes.

Care
Agrotechnical measures for nectarine are the same as for other fruits: careful weeding of near-stem circles; periodic (2-4 times per summer) watering and loosening.

Worst of all, nectarine tolerates a combination of cold and dampness, in such conditions it does not bear fruit.

Trimming, shaping
The crown of nectarine trees is usually bowl-shaped (leaderless) - this allows most branches to get better access to light. The height of the trunk is left 60-70 cm, one tier of 3-4 main branches is created, extending evenly around the trunk at an angle of 45-55 °. On each of them, in turn, 2-3 skeletal branches of the second order are left.

The seedling is shortened so that its height is equal to the length of the crown and trunk. All branches are cut off - the upper ones are stronger (up to 30 cm), the lower ones are weaker (up to 10 cm). The strongest of the growing shoots is pinched, after which all shoots in the trunk zone are removed.

In the second year, the main skeletal branches subordinate the weakest (this is important), pruning is carried out over the outer lateral branch. Excess shoots are removed. In the summer of the same year (June), summer pruning is carried out: the outer branches are shortened, those growing inward and the weak ones are removed.

In the third year, vertical branches are cut out at the base of skeletal branches and everything that can lead to shading of the crown, and skeletal branches of the second order are laid, premature shoots are also removed and begin to form links of fruiting-replacement by thinning out mixed and premature branches. This year you can get the first harvest from nectarine. In the next (fourth) year, the formation of the crown ends - along with thinning, semi-skeletal branches are laid.

In order to avoid overloading the branches with fruits, the generative buds are thinned out so that no more than 5 fruits remain on one link - this will increase their quality. It is necessary to thin out the nectarine every year.

Pests and diseases
The main enemies of nectarine are powdery mildew, curly leaves and clotterosporium disease.

Peach is a short-lived plant... It is distinguished by its rapid entry into the fruiting phase, intensive growth.

Peach buds have the ability to quickly awaken and release young shoots. The crown grows and if it is not thinned out, starting from the second year, then the yield will decrease.

From the fourth year, the peaches will become small and misshapen. Young trees begin to bear fruit in the second year after planting. With good care, they can give a crop in the first year, with autumn planting.

But this should not be allowed. Better to let the plant develop. You will collect a small crop, but time will be spent, and the plant will lose its strength.

Table of contents

• Juicy peach variety
• Varieties and their description
  • Ripen early: Kiev Early, White Swan, Grisborough and Redhaven, Morettini
  • Medium ripening: Collins, Cardinal, Golden Moscow, Sibiryak, Saturn, Kremlin, Donskoy
  • Late, frost-resistant: Fury, Frost, Veteran
• Self-fertilized, self-fertile peaches: Inka, Vulcan, Harnas, Golden Jubilee

Juicy peach variety

In the past, gardeners dreamed of peaches that can be grown in all regions of the country, not just in the south.

Today, their dreams have come true: breeders have developed many interesting winter-hardy, frost-resistant varieties with different fruiting times, fruit shapes and taste.

Peach trees are divided into four groups (depending on the shape of the fetus):

1. Real peach is a plant with pubescent fruits.
2. Nectarine or bare peach.
3. Potanin's Peach (Potanin's Almond).
4. Fergana peach or fig (flattened fruit).

Peach trees are divided into four groups depending on the shape of the fruit.

The timing of fruit ripening, the flowering period - it all depends not only on the area where the tree is grown, but also on the characteristics of the variety:

1. Early maturing varieties give off the first fruits from July to August.
2. Mid-season enter the fruiting phase in early August and delight with the harvest until September.
3. Late peaches ripen in autumn: September, early October.

Which variety is best suited for a plot or garden depends on the climatic features of the area. It is important to choose plants so as to stretch the fruiting season for the whole season.

The yield of the plant depends on the correct choice of the variety. When buying a seedling, you need to pay attention to several important points, we give their description:

1. Where did the seedling come from?... If the nursery is located in a different strip, then the seedling may die in the first year after planting or it will constantly freeze. The variety should be zoned, and the nursery should be in the same climatic zone (preferably even in the same region) where the tree will grow.
2. Inspection of the scion site... It should be smooth and even, without bumps and hardened juice.
3. Plant root system should have a fibrous shape. A root in one trunk is not good.

Annual seedlings take root better and delight with the harvest faster. When buying, it is better to focus on them, but choose strong, healthy plants, and not frail twigs.

Varieties and their description

Ripen early: Kiev Early, White Swan, Grisborough and Redhaven, Morettini

The peculiarity of early maturing varieties is that they quickly enter the fruiting phase. Two-, three-year-old seedlings are already producing a small harvest. Yields peak in the fourth to fifth year after planting.

When choosing early maturing varieties, it is better to focus on plants that have a low, spreading crown. They are easier to care for and shape during the growth period. Shorter trees are also easier to harvest.

Among the representatives of this group, varieties deserve special attention Kiev Early, White Swan and Redhaven.

Redhiven's crop peaks at 11 years of age. More than a hundred kilograms of fruits are harvested from one tree.

The best early varieties of peaches: Kievsky Early, White Swan, Grisboro and Redhaven, Morettini

Each variety of early peach is good in its own way and has a lot of advantages.

Benefits of early peach varieties:

• form a wide crown no more than 5 meters high;
• plants bloom in April-May;
• they enter the fruiting phase quickly: in the fourth year after planting the seedling;
• fruiting is extended from July to August;
• it has a high yield, aromatic and tasty fruits.

The first fruits appear on a mature, well-formed tree. This cannot but affect the yield: from a six-year-old tree, with proper care, you can harvest up to 60 kilograms of peaches.

Another prominent representative of this group is Grisborough variety... It is distinguished by medium vigor, but, unlike the aforementioned varieties, it has an average winter hardiness.

In order for the plant to bear fruit in mid-latitudes, it must be planted in calm places.

High winter hardiness pleases peach moretini... One of its advantages is a spreading crown that is easy to shape.

Morettini fruits are among the first to ripen, but have average transportability. This prevents the fruit from being transported over long distances.

Medium ripening: Collins, Cardinal, Golden Moscow, Sibiryak, Saturn, Kremlin, Donskoy

Medium ripening varieties allow the peach conveyor to continue.

Feature of plants of this species:

• high, spreading crown (from 5 meters);
• high productivity;
• good winter hardiness;
• large fruits.

Mid-season peaches have a huge number of varieties, but among them there are several types that show themselves perfectly in any conditions and do not require special care: Collins, Cardinal, Golden Moscow, Siberian, Saturn, Kremlin.

Variety Cardinal famous for its huge fruits (from 140 g) and excellent taste. This is one of the most delicious types of peach. On the international tasting scale, he received five points. This is the highest mark.

The plant is resistant to diseases, but it is difficult to tolerate recurrent frosts. It is better to plant it in a calm place, not far from the wall of a house or fence, but away from water.

The best varieties of peaches of medium ripening: Collins, Cardinal, Zolotaya Moskva, Sibiryak, Saturn, Kremlevsky, Donskoy

Kremlin peach easily adapts to changes in temperature conditions, has high winter hardiness. Thanks to this, he attracted the attention of gardeners from regions where summers are cool. With good care, the fruits reach up to 200 g.

Variety Golden Moscow not so long ago appeared on the market, but its seedlings are very popular. The plant winters well and is resistant to diseases, has juicy large fruits.

The fruiting period stretches for almost three weeks. Peach blooms late, after the threat of frost return, and this increases the number of quality fruits.

Sibiryak variety highly regarded by farmers for its excellent transportability. The yellow fruit can be stored in a cold room for up to three weeks. In addition, they are tasty and juicy, and the bone is easily separated from the pulp.

The first crop is harvested in August, and the last fruits are removed in early September.

Peach Saturn stored no longer than 12 days. It's also a lot. The plant has high winter hardiness (up to -27). A strong crown complicates care and this affects the yield.

If the branches are tilted downward, then you can get an excellent harvest every year.

The most winter-hardy representative of this group is peach donskoy... It not only withstands severe frosts, but also quickly recovers after freezing.

The main advantage of peaches of the middle ripening period is high yield, transportability of fruits and excellent winter hardiness of the tree.

Most varieties have a juicy pulp and a pleasant aroma.... A high crown can be regarded as a disadvantage, but with the correct shaping of the tree, it is easily eliminated and turns into a virtue.

Late, frost-resistant: Fury, Frost, Veteran

Planted a peach, but it does not bear fruit, only intensively increases the crown? Do not be upset: it is better to be patient and wait a little longer.

Late-ripening varieties bear fruit starting at the age of 5 after planting a seedling. They are intended for cultivation in the southern regions. In the North and in the Middle zone, they do not have time to ripen and are sour.

American Fury withstands frosts down to -28 degrees. It is valued for its huge, up to 300 g, orange-colored fruits. The plant is undemanding to care.

The collection of fruits falls in September, when only apple and pear trees are left in the garden. The fruits are stored for no longer than six days.

Frost variety also bred by American breeders, who focused on winter hardiness and large-fruited plants.

The tree gives a high stable yield, withstands frosts down to -26 degrees, and is resistant to diseases. The fruits are used for fresh food. Stored for ten days.

The best late-ripening peach varieties: Fury, Frost, Veteran

Veteran grade differs from late-ripening varieties in that it quickly enters the fruiting phase and has a low growth. The size of the fruit is also not impressive (no more than 150 g).

They love it for its good taste. It is ideal for conservation.

Self-fertilized, self-fertile peaches: Inka, Vulcan, Harnas, Golden Jubilee

Self-pollinated varieties are very popular among gardeners. To increase fruiting, recommend planting several plants for cross-pollination... But one tree will also bear fruit.

Among self-pollinated, self-fertile varieties, a good harvest in a single planting gives Inka, Volcano, Harnas, Golden Jubilee.

Harnas belongs to winter-hardy, early-ripening dessert varieties. It is a vigorous tree that bears fruit regularly. Its peculiarity is that the fruits hold tightly to the branches and do not fall off.

Early maturing varieties are distinguished by high winter hardiness of trees and flower buds. They can withstand recurrent frosts. This makes it possible to grow them not only in the southern latitudes, but also in the middle lane, as well as in Siberia and the Urals.

Self-pollinated peach varieties: Inka, Volcano, Harnas, Golden Jubilee

In the regions of Siberia, it is necessary to protect trees from recurrent frosts.

Mid-season varieties build up a decent crown and only then please with a rich harvest. The disadvantage is that it is difficult to form branches, but a regular and generous harvest allows you to turn a blind eye to this.

Mid-season varieties often bent downward to facilitate harvesting.

The lack of late-ripening varieties isthat they can only grow in a certain area. But if the climatic conditions allow, then these trees will not only decorate the garden, but also delight with delicious fruits.

When planting a peach, it should be borne in mind that all varieties bloom very early, when there are still few pollinating insects. You can help the plant by gently shaking the upper branches so that the pollen falls on the lower inflorescences.

Plants respond well to feeding and watering... Water plays an important role in the formation of fruits. Its quantity depends not only on the size of peaches, but also on their taste and aroma.

Give your seedlings a little attention and care so that they can turn into beautiful trees and please with the harvest every year.