How to Care for Dwarf Nectarines

Dwarf nectarine species, such as Prunus persica nectarina "Mericrest," provide your family with flavorful fresh fruit while maintaining a manageable size. Most dwarf nectarine trees top out at 6 feet tall, making them a smart choice for cultivation in small gardens and home landscapes. Dwarf nectarines also perform well in containers, so you can grow them on a deck or patio. Caring for dwarf nectarine trees is a simple task. Dwarf nectarine trees perform best in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 8.

Garden hose or watering can
Balanced, water-soluble fruit tree fertilizer
Pruning shears or loppers

Instructions

- 1
  Position or plant the dwarf nectarine tree where it receives full sunlight. A minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day is required for the tree to produce healthy new growth and flavorful fruit.
- 2
  Provide dwarf nectarines with 1 inch of supplemental irrigation each week from the spring through the summer. Note that potted dwarf nectarine trees receive drying winds from all sides and may subsequently require more frequent irrigation. Allow the surface of the soil to dry to the touch between irrigating to prevent overwatering.
- 3
  Fertilize the dwarf nectarine tree with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer that's specially formulated for fruit-bearing trees. Feed the tree with a single application in early spring before new growth begins. Mix and apply the fertilizer as directed on the product label.
- 4
  Monitor dwarf nectarines for diseased, damage or dead foliage and branches. Remove problem branches or foliage with sharp, sterile pruning shears or loppers to maintain the tree's health and appearance.
- 5
  Bring potted dwarf nectarine trees indoors when temperatures drop below -20 degrees Fahrenheit.

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