Prunus persica nucipersica 'INDEPENDENCE' nectarine tree

Independence is an early to medium late nectarine tree variety producing medium-sized, rounded fruit with glossy, bright red skin. The flesh is deep yellow with red tones in full maturity, juicy, and sweet. Maturity is from late July to mid August in C.E. It is self-fertile. It was bred by John H. Weinberger in Fresno, California, USA, and introduced in 1965

Nectarine trees are best suited for warmer parts of Central Europe, especially wine regions, city gardens with accumulated heat, and walled gardens protected from the worst winter winds. During cold winters and in case of significant temperature swings in late winter (night frost and strong sun during the day) we recommend stem protection (wrap it with jute or similar material) until the temperature settles down.

Nectarine trees like slightly alkaline, moist but well drained, and very fertile soil. Do not transplant bare-root trees in autumn, only in spring. Pruning is possible in early spring after flowering or in mid-late August after harvesting the fruit – reduce long branches to 30-50% of their size and remove weak ones. However, unpruned trees exhibit higher yield and better health. Independence is hardy in the wood down to about -27 °C (USDA zone 5b) but dislikes long-lasting frost.

Last update 08-12-2021