This genetically dwarf tree is a two-for-one fruit powerhouse, combining a Nectar Babe nectarine and a Pix Zee peach on a single plant. The nectarine produces large, sweet, yellow freestone fruits, while the peach offers full-size, orange-red freestone fruits with vibrant yellow flesh. Both varieties mature with exceptional flavor and thrive in warm climates, requiring only 400 chill hours, making this duo accessible to Southern gardeners where traditional stone fruits struggle. The tree reaches just 5 to 6 feet tall, fitting comfortably into small spaces and remaining easy to manage, prune, and protect from late frosts.
Full Sun
Moderate
6-9
96in H x ?in W
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Moderate
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Growing two distinct stone fruits on a single compact tree eliminates the space dilemma that stops many home gardeners from raising nectarines and peaches. Both the Nectar Babe nectarine and Pix Zee peach are exceptionally low-chill varieties, needing just 400 hours to break dormancy, so this combination genuinely works in climates where standard stone fruits fail. The genetic dwarfism keeps the tree to 5 to 6 feet tall, yet both varieties produce full-size, freestone fruits with no compromise on flavor or yield.
Both fruits are eaten fresh from the tree or used in desserts, jams, and preserves. The freestone pits separate cleanly from the flesh, making them straightforward to eat out of hand or slice for baking into cobblers, pies, and cakes. The high sugar content and full flavor of both varieties make them excellent choices for fresh consumption and home preserving.
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Transplant the bare-root or container tree in early spring or fall, when temperatures are mild and the tree is dormant or beginning to break dormancy. Space at least 8 to 10 feet away from other trees and structures to allow for air circulation and to prevent shading. Harden off container specimens by gradually exposing them to direct sun over 7 to 10 days before planting. Dig a hole slightly wider than the root ball and just as deep; avoid burying the graft union. Backfill with amended soil, water deeply, and mulch with 2 to 3 inches of organic matter, keeping mulch a few inches away from the trunk.
Harvest nectarines and peaches when they reach full color and yield slightly to gentle pressure at the shoulder, typically from mid to late summer depending on your region. The fruits should separate easily from the branch with a gentle twist and lift; do not force them or you risk damaging the tree. Both freestone varieties will release their pits cleanly once ripe, making them easy to prepare. Harvest every 3 to 5 days during peak season as fruits ripen continuously; allowing ripe fruit to remain on the tree signals the tree to slow production.
Prune the dwarf tree in late winter or early spring while still dormant to shape the canopy and remove crossing or weak branches. Because the tree reaches only 5 to 6 feet tall, pruning is minimal compared to standard stone fruit trees; focus on maintaining an open center to improve air circulation and light penetration. Thin fruit in late spring if the tree sets excessively; remove small or damaged fruits, leaving 4 to 6 inches between remaining fruits to encourage larger, sweeter individual fruits. Because both varieties bloom on the same tree, coordinate thinning to manage the crop from both cultivars evenly.
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