Nectarines in Pots
Growing a nectarine tree in the landscape is easy enough but what about nectarine trees for containers? When growing nectarines in containers, you have to accept that your tree won’t get to be as big as it would if it were planted in the ground, especially if you’re planning on moving the tree with the coming and going of winter. The ideal maximum size for a container is between 15 and 20 gallons (57-76 L.). If you’re planting a sapling, however, you should start out with a smaller pot and transplant it up every year or two, as nectarines grow better if their roots are slightly constricted. Also, when growing nectarines in containers, you’ll have the most luck with a dwarf tree that’s bred to stay small. Nectar Babe and Necta Zee are two good dwarf varieties.
Potted Nectarine Tree Care
Nectarines in pots need a few things in order to succeed.
They need at least six hours of full sun each day. They’re heavy drinkers and need to be watered frequently but should be planted in a well-draining potting medium. Feed them frequently during the growing season with high phosphorus fertilizer to encourage flowers and fruit. Prune your nectarines in pots to encourage low, horizontal branches. This will create a shrub-like shape that takes advantage of the tree’s small size.
