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Can You Grow Nectarine in California?

US · USDA Zone 9b · zones 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b

Grows well here

Nectarines grow well here in full sun with well-drained soil — protect blossoms from late frost.

Plant zones

5a–9b

California last frost

mid-January

California first frost

late December

Days to harvest

2–5 years

About Nectarine

Nectarines are fuzz-free peaches — a self-fertile stone fruit that rewards you with sweet fruit on a beautiful small tree, but needs careful pruning and frost protection.

Plant a bare-root tree in a sunny, well-drained spot. Prune annually for an open center. Thin fruit for size. Most grafted trees bear within 2-3 years.

Full nectarine growing guide →

Gardening in California

California spans more climate zones than any other state. Coastal regions are mild year-round; the Central Valley is hot and productive; mountains are cold; deserts are extreme.

See what grows well in California →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Nectarine in California?

Nectarines grow well here in full sun with well-drained soil — protect blossoms from late frost.

What zone is California?

California spans USDA Zone 9b (5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b).

When do you plant Nectarines in California?

See the planting guide for Nectarine — timing depends on your exact frost date.