They are currently being planted in New Jersey. Rutgers is currently evaluating several collections of peach and nectarine rootstocks, which have been shown to have desirable traits in other areas. One such trial is from the NC-140 Regional Rootstock Project which is a very large group of fruit collaborators from across North America who evaluate the rootstocks on numerous sites simultaneously. Such a program gives important information about potential rootstocks in a much more timely manner than was previously possible. Lovell has consistently been the best cropping rootstock for New Jersey, but other potentially important stocks are always being introduced into the program.
Guardian produces a vigorous tree with most varieties and is more tolerant of peach tree short life.
The greatest benefit of early thinning is an increase in fruit size. Hand thinning should proceed as soon after bloom as possible after most of the risk of freezing is past. It is common to see padded bats used to dislodge fruit, but hand thinning is preferred since offers greater control and less limb damage. A good rule for most varieties is 6 to 8 inches between fruits. The amount of fruit left on the tree is the key to thinning, not the amount of fruit removed.