China is the birthplace of apricots (Prunus Armeniaca), grown throughout most of the Western globe, including Utah. Apricots are described as "stone fruits" because, like peaches, plums, and cherries, they have a large, hard pit called a "stone."
The velvety-skinned, flushed orange apricot has been grown for ages and is a staple in many different cuisines worldwide. In most western states and areas with lots of heat and sunshine, apricot trees can be grown. As a Mediterranean crop, Apricots thrive in regions with warm springs, summers, and plenty of water.
Apricots contain antioxidants that may help protect the liver from oxidative stress. Apricots contain flavonoids, which can help protect against inflammation and inflammatory illnesses.
Of the tree fruits, apricots are among the most decorative and have lovely flowers. They can be dried, frozen, canned or bottled, turned into jam or jelly, or consumed fresh.
An Apricot Tree's Planting Location
The circumstances that apricots require to fruit well are a hot summer, a generally warm, dry spring, and a winter cold. You can grow apricot trees outdoors in the warmer, drier climates, ideally in a sunny, protected area like in front of a wall. Steer clear of low-lying areas ("frost pockets") where chilly air collects. The deciduous nature of apricot tree leaves means that they should be placed with the tree's winter bareness in mind.
In colder climates or less ideal locations, a compact or dwarf apricot tree can be grown in a large pot and kept in a conservatory or greenhouse.
The soil used to cultivate apricot trees must be free-draining, rich in organic content, and fertile. The ideal soil pH for apricots is between 6.5 to 8, which is neutral to alkaline.
Apricot Growing Tips
After choosing your cultivar, the next step is to learn how to cultivate apricots. The most crucial factors to take into account are soil and site selection. The soil that the trees require must be deep, well-drained, and rich in organic materials.
Trees of apricots bloom early. Make sure to grow your apricot trees on higher ground at periods when late frost can be an issue.
To conduct a percolation test before planting:
- Dig a hole 30 cm in diameter and one foot deep.
- Add water, then wait till the following day.
- After filling the hole once more, cover it with a stick or straight edge.
- The water drop is measured hourly. An hourly rate of about 2 inches (5 cm) is ideal.
Taking Care Of Apricots
Cultivating apricot trees is easier with the right soil, sunlight, and drainage. High concentrations of salt, boron, chloride, and other elements should not be tolerated by apricots. The general upkeep of apricot trees will depend on feeding them. They typically obtain their needs from the soil, though, if it was prepared for the growth of apricot trees earlier.
During blossom and fruiting, the trees will require a weekly watering of one inch (2.5 cm). A drip irrigation system prevents fruit, flowers, and leaves from becoming wet.
Once the fruit begins to appear, make sure that part of the care of your apricot tree is to thin it out to a distance of 1½ to 2 inches (3.8 to 5 cm). Because of this, the fruit will be bigger. The fruits will be a lot smaller if you don't thin them.
Apricots require yearly pruning and training from early summer to late autumn. Numerous fungal diseases and apricot pests have been identified. To prevent these disease problems, spray fungicides in the spring.
Fruit And Flower Protection
When frosts are expected, cover trees planted outside with thick horticultural fleece to protect them from overnight frosts that could harm flower buds or blossoms and hinder fruit output. This fleece must be removed throughout the day or after the cold snap unless you intend to hand-pollinate the blooms. Otherwise, insects won't be able to reach the flowers.
When the fruits ripen, the harvest attracts birds and wasps. If the fruits are protected by tiny mesh, they can ripen completely on the tree.
Tips For Gathering, Preserving, And Using Apricots
When ripe, the fruit should be squishy, and depending on the cultivar, the skin will turn yellow, red, orange, or more. A tree may produce three to four bushels, depending on the cultivar. To prevent spur damage, slightly twist the fruit after harvesting. Keep apricots that are just beginning to ripen at room temperature.
Refrigerated fruit is kept for three to five days. Apricots can be cooked and consumed in various ways, including poaching, grilling, and broiling. Additionally, they can be dried, canned, or frozen. Keep exploring!