Peaches and nectarines – prunus persica and P. persica var nectarina

Contributed by Linda

These are deciduous trees which grow to 3-5 metres in height and have a spread of 3-5m. They are hardy to half-hardy. The slightly sweeter nectarine is simply a smooth skinned peach: nectarine trees are less hardy than the peach and need a little more care in their siting and treatment. Both are excellent trees for the small garden. The fruit should be picked when just ripe and it has the maximum of flavour and sweetness.

Trees can live for 10-15 years.

Some types of peaches and nectarines (there are many more!)