How to Grow Nectarine 'Mericrest'

Tree enters dormancy in fall after leaf drop. Buds swell and break in spring as temperatures warm, revealing pink-red flowers.

Prune during dormancy (late winter) to shape tree and remove diseased wood. Apply dormant oil spray before bud break. Ensure adequate chilling hours (600-900 for Mericrest).

Abundant pink to red flowers appear on bare branches before leaves emerge. Flowers are primarily self-fertile but cross-pollination improves fruit set.

Avoid frost damage to flowers if late frosts threaten; protect with row covers if needed. Remove competing weeds. Monitor for pests like aphids.

Small green fruits develop after successful pollination. Thin fruits to 4-6 inches apart on branches to promote larger, higher-quality fruit.

Thin fruits when walnut-sized (about 1 inch). Thin aggressively to maximize fruit size; remove damaged or misshapen fruits first. Water consistently; mulch to retain moisture.

Fruits enlarge and develop characteristic color (red/orange blush over yellow background). Sugar content increases as ripening progresses.

Continue consistent watering during hot periods. Do not allow soil to dry out. Reduce nitrogen fertilizer to avoid excessive vegetative growth. Watch for fruit cracking if rains are heavy.

Fruits reach full size and color. Flesh yields slightly to pressure when ripe. Harvests typically begin in mid-summer.

Harvest when fully ripe by gently twisting and lifting fruit. Pick fruit that comes off easily; underripe fruit requires gentle handling if picked early. Harvest as needed over 2-3 week period.