Among the hardiest of nectarines, developed by E. Meader of New Hampshire. Red skin with sweet yellow flesh; freestone. The Mericrest Nectarine blooms late, good resistance to leaf spot and brown rot. Hardy to about -20° F. Zone 5-8.
ZONE: 5-8
POLLINATION/BLOOM TIME: Late blooming. Self-fertile.
RECOMMENDED GROWING AND CARE:
Full sun, warm & protected locations with balanced moisture. Reduce grass competition in root zone. Top dress with compost yearly. Summer prune for airflow and ease of harvest. Spur bearer. Nectarines need regular pruning to thin excessive twiggy growth. Only prune during dry weather to decrease potential disease introduction to newly-exposed wood. Mid-season ripening.
CHILL HOURS: n/a hours below 45F
DISEASE RESISTANCE: Average. Good resistance to leaf spot and brown rot.
SIZE AT MATURITY: Dwarf - 8' x 12'| Semi Dwarf – 10-16' x 15'| Standard – 20' x 20'
