How to Grow Nectarine in Australia
A warm-season fruit for the long-term patch
Growing Nectarine rewards a little local know-how, and in the right season the plants do most of the work for you. It is rated intermediate to grow. Saves ~$5-10/week in season, nectarines are premium-priced in supermarkets.
This guide covers when to plant Nectarine in your region, the position and soil it likes, how to plant it, day-to-day care, the pests and diseases to watch, and how to harvest and store your crop.
When to Plant in Your Region
Nectarine is a warm-season crop, half-hardy (it takes light frost but not a hard freeze). In subtropical South-East Queensland it is best planted in June, July and August. Timing shifts with your climate, so choose your region below for a local calendar.
Varieties to Try
Goldmine
White-fleshed, sweet, rich flavour. Low-chill variety suited to warmer areas. Freestone. One of the best backyard nectarines.
Try: Daleys Fruit, Flemings, Bunnings
Arctic Star
White-fleshed, very sweet, low-acid. Very low chill requirement. Ideal for subtropical and warm temperate zones.
Try: Daleys Fruit, Flemings
Position and Soil
Give Nectarine full sun (at least 6 hours a day). It does best in free-draining soil with a pH around 6 to 7. Dig through plenty of compost before planting, and mulch to hold moisture and keep weeds down. It can be container-grown in 50cm+ (dwarf varieties), though it is happier in the ground.
Planting
Plant Nectarine into a well-prepared hole the same depth as the rootball and twice as wide. Allow about 400 cm between plants (more for full-size trees) so each has room and airflow. Water in well, stake if needed, and keep the area weed-free while it establishes.
Plant bare-root in winter (June-August). Essentially a smooth-skinned peach, with the same care requirements. Low-chill varieties are essential for SEQ and subtropical zones. Spray copper at bud swell to prevent leaf curl. Prune to an open vase shape. Net heavily against fruit fly. Self-fertile.
Care
Water consistently, roughly 15 L per plant every 3 days in warm weather, less in cool or wet spells. Feed every few weeks through the growing season with a balanced organic fertiliser, and keep mulch topped up.
Pests and Diseases
Keep an eye out for Fruit fly, Queensland fruit fly, Curly leaf, Scale and Borer. The main diseases to watch are Peach leaf curl, Brown rot and Bacterial canker. Good spacing, watering at the base rather than over the leaves, and crop rotation prevent most problems. See our Pest and Disease Guide to identify and fix any issue.
Harvesting and Storage
Nectarine is typically ready to harvest within roughly 12 months once established (young plants may take a season or two longer). Bench until ripe, then fridge for 3-5 days. Freeze sliced for months.
In the Kitchen
In the kitchen, nectarine is good eaten fresh in season, grilled with honey and yoghurt, made into jam and chutney and baked into pies, crumbles and galettes. Nutritionally: good source of vitamins C and A and contains potassium and dietary fibre.
Companion Planting
Nectarine grows well alongside Nasturtium, Garlic, Chives, Tansy and Comfrey. Keep it away from Tomato and Potato. Our Companion Planting Guide has the full pairings.
Track Your Nectarine Growing
Add nectarine to your garden in the Planting Season app and get reminders for planting, care and harvest, tuned to your region.
Open the App →Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Nectarine in Australia?
Nectarine is a warm-season crop. In subtropical regions like South-East Queensland it is best planted in June, July and August. Timing changes with your climate, so use the calendar above for your region.
How long does Nectarine take to grow?
Nectarine is generally ready to harvest within roughly 12 months once established (young plants may take a season or two longer).
How much sun does Nectarine need?
Give it full sun (at least 6 hours a day) for the healthiest growth and best harvest.
See also: Nectarine in the Plant Library
