Apricots - Fruits on “The 4th”

One of the fruits that I wait for every summer just happens to ripen right around the Fourth of July. To me, apricots are that sweet reminder that summer has begun.

Apricots (Prunus armeniaca) have been grown around the world for so long it is unclear where they originated. It is thought that Armenia could have been where they were discovered first. Some sources say cultivation may have begun in India as early as 3000 BC. Dried apricots were an important commodity on Persian trade routes, and to this day Iran and Turkey are the world's leading producers. Lucky for us, California is the United States leading grower.

Many of us have been fortunate enough to enjoy growing and/or harvesting apricots here in the Bay Area, but they can be a bit finicky due to our mild winters, heavy soil and foggy summers. As with most stone-fruits, apricots require winter chill hours (cumulative temps. below 45°F) for maximum flower set. This is generally not a problem except for some locations along the coast or in the City (S.F.). Because apricots tend to flower early here (late Feb.-March), they can be hindered by frosts, hail or heavy rains. Or sometimes, a late winter heat wave can cause them to bloom too early resulting in little or no fruit production. Most are self-fertile, so they do not require a pollinator.

The sunniest, warmest spot in the yard, protected from cold winds is the ideal place to plant one. Amend hard clay soil a bit for good drainage. Proper pruning as they grow increases air flow and light penetration, which can help “dry” them out in the summer, reducing disease problems. There are many successful treatments that you can try when things get out-of-hand. Average watering and fertilizing about once or twice a year will also help keep your trees healthy. Some trees tend to bear heavily, so fruit-thinning may be necessary to avoid damage to the branches of young trees. And we're not the only ones who enjoy the ripe fruit. You may want, or NEED to protect your trees with some type of netting to keep the birds, squirrels, rats, raccoons…away from your bounty!

These historic trees have always been a garden favorite here. Their blossoms in the spring give way to sweet little summer treats, followed by a great fall color display.

In January we expect to have a good supply of bareroot ‘Blenheim’, ‘Nugget’ and ‘Royal Rosa’ apricots to choose from. Take a look at our Fruit Tree and Small Fruits lists for available varieties with descriptions. Give us a call or come in for a visit if you have any questions or would like to share one of your favorite fruit stories!

Have Fun!

—Che