Sauzee King Nectarine Tree

The Sauzee King Nectarine tree is ideal for home orchards as it can be kept small, making it easy to maintain. These trees thrive in full sun and well-draining soil.

Watering Instructions

• Spring to Summer: Water once or twice a week, depending on the weather. Monitor temperature and humidity, as these factors affect soil moisture and the tree's water needs.
• Fall: Gradually reduce watering as the weather cools and the tree begins to lose its leaves.
• Winter Dormancy: Completely stop watering the tree during its dormancy period in winter, as it does not require supplemental water during this time.

Pruning Instructions

• Winter Pruning: The best time to prune nectarine trees is during winter dormancy. Pruning keeps the tree between 8-20 feet tall with a full canopy.
• Pruning Tips:
  • Cut the highest branches to promote lower branching and maintain a shorter, fuller tree.
  • Thin out the lowest branches and those in the center of the tree.
  • Remove any dry twigs, crossing branches, or suckers growing straight up.
• Low Branching Form: Most nectarine trees are pruned to a low-branching form for easy picking. Maintaining this form encourages better fruit production and makes care easier.

Fertilization

• Winter Fertilization: Apply steer manure and organic fertilizers rich in phosphorus and potassium, such as humus and bone meal, to encourage root development and fruiting.
• Spring and Summer Fertilization: Use nitrogen-based fertilizers like blood meal during the growing season to support healthy growth.
• Fall Fertilization: Avoid fertilizing in the fall to prevent thin and weak growth, as the tree’s growth slows down during this time.

Pest Management

• Winter Pest Prevention: Apply organic horticultural dormant sprays, such as Neem oil, during the winter to prevent soft-bodied insects in spring.

Pruning Tips for Nectarine Trees

• Winter Pruning: Trim the tree in winter to reduce height and promote lower branches.
• Summer Thinning: Thin the tree during the summer to direct the plant's energy toward the remaining fruit. This helps the remaining fruit grow larger.
• Excess Fruit Removal: Remove excess fruit to allow the remaining fruit to develop larger and healthier.

History of the Sauzee King Nectarine

The Sauzee King Nectarine is a relatively recent variety, developed for its distinctive flat, donut-like shape, similar to the popular Saturn peach. The goal behind its development was to produce a unique, easy-to-eat nectarine with smooth skin and sweet, juicy flesh. Bred for both commercial and home orchards, the Sauzee King has gained popularity for its excellent flavor, attractive appearance, and the ease with which the tree can be maintained at a smaller size. This nectarine variety is known for its ability to thrive in a variety of climates, making it a versatile choice for growers.