The Candy Sprinkles Nectarine is a compact variety of nectarine, recognized for its manageable size and distinctive fruit characteristics. This deciduous fruit tree is a popular choice for home gardeners seeking to grow nectarines in smaller spaces, including containers. It stands out among other nectarine types due to its unique visual and taste attributes.
Unique Characteristics
The “Candy Sprinkles” name describes its most striking feature: the fruit’s interior. When sliced open, the bright yellow flesh is speckled with pink and red flecks, creating a visually appealing effect. The exterior of the nectarine displays a smooth, dark burgundy or red-blushed skin. These nectarines are freestone, meaning the flesh separates easily from the pit, which simplifies eating and preparation.
Beyond its appearance, the flavor profile of the Candy Sprinkles Nectarine is a balance of sweetness with a sub-acidity. This low-acid characteristic means the fruit lacks the tangy flavor sometimes found in other yellow nectarine varieties. The fruit is noted for its rich flavor and juicy texture, making it suitable for eating fresh.
Growing Conditions
Successful cultivation of the Candy Sprinkles Nectarine tree begins with providing appropriate environmental conditions. These trees thrive in full sun exposure, requiring at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal fruit production and overall health. Well-drained, fertile soil is also important for healthy root development and nutrient absorption.
This variety has a chill hour requirement of approximately 400 to 600 hours, which refers to the cumulative hours below 45°F (7°C) needed during winter dormancy. Meeting this requirement is important for proper bud development and fruit set. The Candy Sprinkles Nectarine is hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 6 through 9.
Ongoing Care
Once established, the Candy Sprinkles Nectarine tree benefits from consistent ongoing care to maintain its vigor and productivity. Regular watering is important, providing moderate yet consistent moisture, especially during dry periods and as the fruit develops. Applying a thick layer of mulch around the base of the tree can help retain soil moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Fertilization typically involves feeding the tree in early spring before new growth begins, and possibly again in early summer, using a balanced fertilizer formulated for fruit trees. Pruning is a regular and significant aspect of care for nectarines. These trees are often pruned to an open-center or vase shape to promote air circulation and sunlight penetration to all parts of the canopy, which helps in fruit ripening and disease prevention. Dormant season pruning, usually in late winter before new leaves emerge, involves removing dead, diseased, or crossing branches, and shortening vigorous shoots to encourage fruit production on pencil-sized wood.
Harvesting and Enjoying
Harvesting Candy Sprinkles Nectarines typically occurs in mid-summer, generally ripening between July and August. Key indicators of ripeness include the fruit’s color, which should transition from green to a deep burgundy or red blush over a yellow background, and a fragrant aroma. A ripe nectarine will feel firm but yield slightly to gentle pressure, particularly near the stem. The fruit should also detach easily from the branch with a slight twist.
Nectarines do not increase their sugar content after being picked, so harvesting them at peak ripeness on the tree provides the best flavor. Once harvested, Candy Sprinkles Nectarines are excellent for fresh eating, often enjoyed as a quick snack due to their convenient size. Their sweet and juicy nature also makes them suitable for various culinary uses, including desserts like crumbles and pies, or for making preserves and jams.