I am very interested in trying to grow a cold-hardy variety of nectarine (which is really just a peach without fuzz) here in Zone 5. It is not yet purchased or planted but I do have my sights on Stark SunGlo:

https://www.starkbros.com/products/fruit-trees/nectarine-trees/stark-sunglo-nectarine

Unfortunately, my entire back yard area where it could be planted is shaded for about 40-50% of the day. There is a huge 200-year old maple tree in the neighbor’s yard just west of my property, which provides heavy shade starting about noon or 1pm, and honestly I would not want to see that old maple destroyed as it is truly majestic.

Am I out of my mind for even considering the possibility? I do know that there are multiple cold-hardy varieties today in both peach and nectarine, which in ideal conditions should survive and fruit for several years if not a decade or more. But what I don’t know is, how well would a nectarine (or peach) perform in about 50% shade in Zone 5, or anyplace warmer for that matter? Do you think it’s worth a shot, or should I just be content with my apples and cherries?

I would appreciate hearing from anyone with real-life experience growing peach or nectarine in partial shade, regardless of USDA zone. I am most interested in understanding the minimum sun vs. shade requirements of nectarine or peach.

Thank you.