Apricots are a delicious and healthy fruit that many people choose to cultivate in their home gardens. Growing an apricot tree may sound like a daunting task, but it is easier than you might think. With the right knowledge, preparation, and care, you can grow a thriving apricot tree that will yield bountiful harvests for years to come.
Quick Facts
Topic | Information |
---|---|
Choosing the Right Variety of Apricot Tree | – Two main categories: standard (up to 25 ft tall) and dwarf (up to 15 ft tall) |
– Self-pollinating and cross-pollinating varieties | |
Climate Requirements | – Cold winters and mild summers |
– Need sun exposure to produce fruit | |
Soil Requirements | – Well-drained soil rich in organic matter |
– Soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0 | |
Space Requirements | – Standard trees: plant 15 ft apart or more |
– Dwarf trees: can be planted closer together | |
Pest and Disease Control | – Susceptible to pests like aphids, mites, and borers |
– Diseases like brown rot and bacterial canker can affect them | |
Harvesting and Storage | – Apricots are ready for harvest in mid to late summer |
– Pick when fully ripe but still firm | |
– Store in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for longer storage | |
– Can be dried or canned for later use | |
Planting Techniques | – Plant in late winter or early spring when dormant |
– Well-drained soil rich in organic matter | |
– Plant in a location with full sun exposure | |
– Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain health and improve fruit production | |
Caring for Your Apricot Tree | – Regular watering, deep but not waterlogged |
– Fertilize in early spring and mid-summer with balanced fertilizer | |
– Prune in winter, removing dead or diseased wood, and thinning fruit | |
Protecting Your Apricot Tree | – Monitor for pests and diseases regularly |
– Treat with organic or chemical insecticides when necessary | |
– Provide winter protection for young trees with burlap or frost cloth |
Choosing the Right Apricot Tree
Before you plant an apricot tree, you need to make sure you have selected the right variety for your needs. There are many different types of apricot trees, each with their own unique characteristics and cultivation requirements.
Types of Apricot Trees
There are two main categories of apricot trees: standard and dwarf. Standard apricot trees can grow up to 25 feet tall, while dwarf trees only reach about 15 feet in height. Standard trees are ideal for larger gardens or orchards, while dwarf trees are better suited to smaller gardens or container planting.
There are also self-pollinating and cross-pollinating varieties. Self-pollinating varieties do not require a second tree to produce fruit, while cross-pollinating trees need a different variety of apricot tree for pollination. Some popular self-pollinating apricot tree varieties include the Moorpark, Goldcot, and Sungold. For cross-pollination, the Blenheim and Royal apricot trees are good choices.
Climate Considerations
Apricot trees require a certain type of climate to thrive. They do best in areas with cold winters and mild summers. They also need a significant amount of sun exposure to produce fruit. If you live in a hot climate, you may need to provide your apricot tree with shade to prevent sunburn. In general, apricot trees are hardy and can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°F.
It’s important to note that apricot trees bloom early in the spring, which makes them susceptible to frost damage. If you live in an area with late frosts, you may want to consider planting a late-blooming variety of apricot tree.
Soil Requirements
Apricot trees prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. They do not tolerate wet or heavy soils, so it’s important to choose a location with good drainage. If your soil is heavy or compacted, you can improve it by adding compost or other organic matter.
Apricot trees also require a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0. If your soil is too acidic, you can add lime to raise the pH. If it’s too alkaline, you can add sulfur to lower the pH.
Space Requirements
Apricot trees need plenty of space to grow. Standard trees should be planted at least 15 feet apart, while dwarf trees can be planted closer together. Make sure the area where you intend to plant your apricot tree has sufficient room for the tree to grow to its full size.
It’s also important to consider the height of the tree when selecting a planting location. Apricot trees can grow quite tall, so you should avoid planting them near power lines or other structures.
Pest and Disease Control
Apricot trees are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, mites, borers, and brown rot. To prevent these problems, it’s important to keep your tree healthy and well-maintained. This includes regular pruning, fertilization, and watering.
If you do notice signs of pest or disease damage, you can treat the problem with insecticides or fungicides. However, it’s important to use these chemicals carefully and follow the instructions on the label.
Harvesting and Storage
Apricots are typically ready for harvest in mid to late summer, depending on the variety and climate. The fruit should be picked when it is fully ripe but still firm. To avoid damaging the fruit, gently twist it off the tree rather than pulling it.
Apricots can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, or frozen for longer-term storage. They can also be dried or canned for later use.

Planting Your Apricot Tree
Apricot trees are a beautiful and delicious addition to any garden. Not only do they provide shade and beauty, but they also produce juicy and flavorful fruit that can be enjoyed throughout the summer months. However, planting an apricot tree requires proper technique and care to ensure that it grows and thrives. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of planting your very own apricot tree.
When to Plant
The best time to plant an apricot tree is in the late winter or early spring when the tree is still dormant. This is because the tree will have a better chance of establishing roots before it begins to flower and produce fruit. Planting in the fall or summer can be risky as the tree may not have enough time to establish itself before the winter frost or summer heat.
Soil Preparation
Good soil preparation is essential to the success of your apricot tree. Apricot trees thrive in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy and clay-like, consider adding sand or perlite to improve drainage. Adding compost or other organic material to the soil before planting will help to provide the tree with the nutrients it needs to grow and produce fruit.
It’s also important to test your soil’s pH level. Apricot trees prefer soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. If your soil is too alkaline, you can add sulfur to lower the pH level.
Planting Techniques
When planting your apricot tree, choose a location that receives full sun for at least six hours a day. Dig a hole that is twice as big as the root ball and make sure the tree is planted at the same level as it was in the pot. If the tree is planted too deep, it may not receive enough oxygen and could suffocate. Water the tree thoroughly after planting and add a layer of mulch around the base to help retain moisture.
It’s important to note that apricot trees require regular pruning to ensure healthy growth and fruit production. Prune your tree in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other. This will help to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration, leading to a healthier tree and better fruit production.
With proper care and attention, your apricot tree will provide you with delicious fruit for years to come. Happy planting!

Caring for Your Apricot Tree
Apricot trees are a beautiful addition to any garden or orchard. They are not only aesthetically pleasing but also provide delicious fruit. Once your apricot tree is planted, it’s important to take good care of it to ensure its longevity and productivity.
Proper watering, fertilizing, pruning, and training will help your tree to grow strong and produce abundant fruit. Here are some tips to help you care for your apricot tree:
Watering Requirements
Apricot trees require regular watering, especially during periods of drought. Water deeply once a week, making sure the soil around the tree is moist but not waterlogged. If you live in a dry climate, you may need to water your tree more frequently. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
It’s also important to avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can lead to disease. If you must water the leaves, do so early in the morning so that the leaves have time to dry before the sun gets too hot.
Fertilizing Your Tree
Apricot trees benefit from periodic applications of fertilizer. Fertilize your tree in the early spring and again in mid-summer using a balanced fertilizer that is specifically formulated for fruit trees. Avoid using too much fertilizer, as this can lead to excessive growth and reduced fruit production.
It’s also a good idea to add organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to the soil around your tree. This will help to improve soil fertility and provide your tree with the nutrients it needs to thrive.
Pruning and Training
Regular pruning and training is essential for the health and productivity of your apricot tree. Prune your tree in the winter when it is dormant, removing any dead or diseased wood, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other.
Training your tree to a central leader system will help to promote strong growth and fruit production. This involves selecting a single, upright stem to be the main trunk of the tree and removing any competing stems. As the tree grows, prune it to maintain a central leader with evenly spaced branches.
It’s also important to thin out the fruit on your apricot tree to ensure that the remaining fruit develops properly. This involves removing some of the immature fruit so that the remaining fruit has enough space to grow and ripen.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your apricot tree remains healthy and productive for many years to come.

Protecting Your Apricot Tree
Protecting your apricot tree from pests and disease is also an important aspect of caring for it. Regular monitoring and treatment can help to prevent problems and ensure that your tree remains healthy and productive.
Pest Control
Common pests that can threaten your apricot tree include aphids, spider mites, and peach twig borers. Regular monitoring and treatment with organic or chemical insecticides can help to prevent infestations.
Disease Prevention
Apricot trees are susceptible to several different diseases, such as brown rot and bacterial canker. Proper sanitation, regular spraying with fungicides, and planting disease-resistant varieties can help to prevent these diseases from affecting your tree.
Winter Protection
Cold winters can be hard on apricot trees, especially young trees. Provide your tree with protection from the cold by wrapping it in burlap or covering it with a frost cloth on cold nights.
Conclusion
Growing and caring for apricot trees may seem intimidating at first, but with the right knowledge, preparation, and care, anyone can do it. Follow the tips and guidelines outlined in this article to set yourself up for success, and enjoy the fruits of your labor for years to come.
Choosing the right apricot tree requires careful consideration of a variety of factors, including the type of tree, climate, soil, and space requirements. By selecting the right tree and providing it with proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious, juicy apricots for years to come.
Apricot Tree FAQS
How long does it take for an apricot tree to bear fruit?
Apricot trees typically start bearing fruit within 2 to 4 years after planting, although it can vary depending on the tree’s age, variety, and growing conditions.
Do you need 2 apricot trees to produce fruit?
In most cases, apricot trees are self-pollinating, meaning they can produce fruit on their own without the need for another tree for pollination. However, having a second apricot tree nearby can increase cross-pollination and potentially improve fruit set and yield.
How hard is it to grow an apricot tree?
Growing an apricot tree is considered moderately challenging. Apricot trees have specific climate and soil requirements, and they are susceptible to certain pests and diseases. However, with proper care, including selecting the right variety, providing the ideal growing conditions, and managing potential issues, you can successfully grow and maintain an apricot tree.
How do you get an apricot tree to fruit?
To encourage an apricot tree to fruit, it is important to provide the tree with the right growing conditions. This includes planting it in well-draining soil, ensuring it receives sufficient sunlight, regular watering (especially during dry periods), appropriate fertilization, and proper pruning. Adequate chilling hours during winter are also essential for fruit production.
Do apricot trees need lots of water?
While apricot trees require regular watering, they do not typically need excessive amounts of water. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues. It is important to strike a balance and provide consistent moisture to the tree, particularly during periods of active growth and fruit development.
Why doesn’t my apricot tree bear fruit?
There could be several reasons why an apricot tree fails to bear fruit. Common factors include improper pollination (lack of cross-pollination or insufficient pollinators), young tree age, unfavorable environmental conditions, insufficient sunlight, inadequate pruning, nutrient deficiencies, or disease and pest problems. Evaluating these factors and addressing any issues can help promote fruiting in apricot trees.