Doug's Big Red Juicy Nectarine

Cold-Hardy Nectarine Seedlings

These are grafted from our buddy Doug's nectarine tree that unfortunately was cut down to create an alley. But we saved the genetics! The mother tree was a very tasty nectarine (see photos). The tree had been growing in Missoula for well over 10 years and had consistently borne heavily. The mother tree had been the most hardy nectarine tree we had seen, having survived at least -26°F while still bearing delicious, plump, sweet-tart nectarines with a nice, jammy, lemony flavor. Hardy to zone 4a.

Cold Tolerance & Zone Speculation

This is the best nectarine tree we’ve seen growing in such cold temps. It’s unknown if it can survive into the -30s. We’re erring on the side of saying no—although, perhaps if the tree is well protected, it could be grown in zone 3b. That’s hypothetical, though. Don’t check the USDA map; go by the measured minimum winter lows directly in your area.

Growth & Rootstock Info

These are on Manchurian apricot rootstock, which can get 20 ft. (even more in deep soil).