Nemaguard Peach Tree

Nemaguard Peaches are vigorous and fast-growing rootstocks, widely loved for its ability to support healthy, thriving fruit trees, especially peaches, nectarines, and apricots. Nemaguard Peach features exceptional resistance to root-knot nematodes, ensuring healthier trees and more bountiful fruit production. The deciduous tree’s rapid growth rate allows for quicker establishment, making it an excellent option for those looking to develop a productive orchard. Enjoy small yellow-fleshed peaches in the summer and enjoy beautiful pink blossoms in early spring, creating a stunning display before the lush green foliage emerges. Reaching an average height of 15-20 feet, it develops a strong, well-branched structure that provides excellent support for grafted fruit varieties. The delicate blooms attract pollinators and adding ornamental beauty to any landscape. The strong root system promotes vigorous growth, leading to healthier, more resilient fruit trees that produce high-quality harvests year after year.

Also Known As: Nemaguard Rootstock, Nemaguard Peach Rootstock, Prunus Nemaguard Peach, Nemaguard Prunus, Nemaguard Dwarf Peach, Nemaguard Fruiting Peach, Nemaguard Stone Fruit Rootstock, Nemaguard Hardy Peach, Nemaguard Orchard Peach, Nemaguard Peach Tree.

Plant Name:	Tree, Nemaguard Peach
Latin Name:	Prunus persica var. Nemaguard
Days to Germinate:	14-28
Days to Bloom:	2 - 3 Years
Years to Fruit:	4 - 6 Years
Plant Height:	15 - 20 Feet
Spread:	15 - 20 Feet
Bloom Diameter:	1 Inch
Growth Habit:	Upright
USDA Zones:	3-8
Lifespan:	Perennial
Brand:	TomorrowSeeds
Sunlight:	Full Sun, Partial Shade
Pollination:	Heirloom, Open-Pollinated
GMO:	No
Fungicide-Treated Seeds*:	No
Seeds Packed For**:	2025

*Fungicide-treated seeds protect the seedlings from diseases until they are up and growing. Do not eat treated seeds.
**Seeds are freshly packed for the growing season of the year listed. Seeds are still viable beyond pack date. Store in a cool and dry location such as the refrigerator or basement to best preserve germination rates.

Planting Instructions:

Soil Preparation:

Choose a clear, sunny location that is not in the shade of other trees and receives at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. Trees establish roots better in sandy, well-drained soils rather than heavy, poorly drained soil. Remove weeds, large rocks, and litter from the planting area. Leave small weeds and dead grass, they will enrich the soil when turned under. Spade or till the soil 6-8 inches deep. Loosening the soil will help the plant establish strong roots. If the soil is heavy or clay-like, mix in some sand or compost to improve drainage. Optionally, either form rows of soil beds or hills 4-6 inches high and at least 15 feet apart. This formation of ridges will help with drainage, ensure good airflow, and make harvesting or maintenance easier.

Planting:

Starting Indoors: Seeds require cold, moist stratification to break dormancy. Soak seeds in room-temperature tap water for 48 hours, changing the water every 12 hours to remove any natural chemical inhibitors on the seed coat that prevent germination. To stratify, roll seeds in a damp paper towel and place in a resealable bag. Place the bag in the refrigerator to keep seeds at 35F-40F for 60-90 days, mimicking winter conditions. After the stratification period, seeds should be ready to germinate. To germinate seeds, place the bags in a warm 70F-90F area. After 10 days, plant the seeds in small pots with moist potting soil and in a warm, sunny location that is at least 65F, about 1 month before the last expected frost in spring. Keep the soil moist, allowing the top inch of soil to dry in between waterings.

Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of leaves and are at least 6 inches in height, harden off seedlings then transplant outdoors in the spring, in a sunny location when temperatures are consistently above 60F. To transplant seedlings, prepare a transplant hole outdoors in a sunny, permanent location. Remove the plants carefully from the pots or flats and set them in the transplant holes, burying some of the stem in the ground. Pack the soil loosely around the plant and leave a slightly sunken area around each plant to hold water. Water the plants after transplanting.

Directly Sowing: If directly sowing outdoors, plant seeds in late summer to naturally cold-stratify seeds. Soak seeds 24 hours in hot tap water prior to sowing. To plant, make holes 1 inch deep and spaced 15-20 feet apart down the rows of raised beds. Plant 1 seed per hole, then cover thinly with soil. Seedbeds can be covered with plastic film to promote germination. Water after planting.

Planting Depth:	1 inch
Within-Row Spacing:	15-20 feet
Between-Row Spacing:	20 feet

Care During the Season:

Nemaguard Peach Tree will produce an abundant and flavorful harvest year after year with care. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. A layer of mulch around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. In early spring, applying a balanced fertilizer can promote strong growth and fruit development. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring to remove dead or diseased branches, improve airflow, and shape the tree for better fruit production.

Harvesting:

Nemaguard Peaches are ready to harvest when fruits develop a deep, rich color and feel slightly soft to the touch. Gently twist or lift the peach from the branch, ensuring it comes off easily without force. Harvest in the morning when temperatures are cooler to preserve freshness and flavor. Handle the peaches carefully to avoid bruising, and place them in shallow containers to prevent damage. For the best taste, allow the peaches to fully ripen on the tree, but if needed, they can continue ripening at room temperature after being picked.