  Apricot is native of Central Asia (Armenia). It was perhaps introduced in Greece by Alexander the Great . Spanish explorers introduced it in California in 18th century.Ninety five percent of Apricots produce in US are grown in California.
Apricots are members of the Rosaceae (rose) family like many other fruit trees such as peaches, apples, pears, plums, cherries, and almonds etc.
Apricots are generally considered more suitable for a warm Mediterranean climate, though several cultivaters growing it throughout zone 5 . Apricots are an excellent choice for your backyard. They start bearing fruit in the third or fourth year. They grow best on a well-drained soil in full sun. Photo on right is Katy and Royal Apricot trees planted in 2008.It is loaded with fruits this year.
Katy Apricot
It needs 350 chill hours and have
all-purpose freestone with mild, sweet and sub-acid flavor. They have yellow skin with slight red cheek. They have early June harvest 3-4 weeks before Blenheim. Blenheim (Royal) These are freestone, sweet, aromatic and flavorful. They are early bloom and are harvested during late June/early July . They require 500 chill hours and are self-fruitful. Photo on right is Royal Apricot planted in full sun in 2008 ,have hundred of fruits this year.
Plant care Apricot tree can thrive and produce good crop in lower desert with proper care. Irrigation As with all the fruits trees, I irrigate them after every 7-14 days during growing season and every 4 to 6 weeks during the winter. Fertilizer We have 3 to 5 inch thick layer of partially compost mulch around the tree drip line, which provides all nutrient to the plant for healthy growth. Paint the trunk of young tree with water soluble white paint mixed with 50/50 water to prevent sun burn. Medicinal uses Hunza is a mountainous region in the Northern part of Pakistan .People of Hunza are well known for their longevity and disease free life. Hunzas favorite and one of their dietary mainstays is the apricot. Apricot orchards are seen everywhere in Hunza. |