The apricot is a sun-loving, warmth-demanding fruit tree that, when planted correctly, can reward you with abundant annual harvests. This fruit is not only delicious but also rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. To enjoy a healthy and productive apricot tree, it’s essential to follow a few key rules when planting, including timing, site selection, seedling preparation, and care. The quality of your planting determines the tree’s longevity and fruit yield. As noted by the Baltimore Chronicle, proper agrotechnics from the start is a key to a long-living, fruitful orchard.
When Is the Best Time to Plant Apricots: Spring or Fall?
The ideal time to plant apricots is in spring, especially in regions with cold winters. Spring planting allows the tree more time to take root before frost. The best time is from late March to mid-April, when the soil has warmed up but the buds haven’t yet started to open.
Fall planting is done in October, about 3–4 weeks before the first expected frost. It suits southern regions where winters are mild. However, there’s a risk that the young tree may not adapt in time for winter.
Factors that affect the choice of planting time:
- Climate of the region
- Condition of the seedling (bare-root or container-grown)
- Soil preparation
- Short-term weather forecast
How to Choose the Right Location for Planting Apricots
Apricots need a well-lit, wind-protected site. A southern or southwestern slope sheltered by a fence or building to the north is ideal. Make sure the site does not flood in spring and has no standing water.
The soil should be light, airy, and fertile — sandy loam or loam with neutral pH (6.5–7.5) is best. Heavy, acidic, or waterlogged soils require additional preparation or drainage.
Tips for Choosing a Planting Site:
- Avoid lowlands where cold air accumulates.
- Keep at least 4–5 meters between trees.
- Do not plant in shaded areas.
- Avoid areas where other stone fruit trees (like plums or cherries) grew before.
How to Prepare the Soil Before Planting
Start soil preparation in advance — in fall or 2–3 weeks before spring planting. This allows nutrients to distribute evenly and gives the soil time to settle.
Basic preparation steps:
- Clear the site of weeds and plant debris.
- Dig a hole about 70×70 cm wide and 60–80 cm deep.
- Mix the topsoil with a bucket of compost, 300 g of superphosphate, and 0.5 liters of wood ash.
- Add the mixture to the hole, forming a small mound.
- If needed, add drainage (gravel, crushed brick).
How to Choose a Good Apricot Seedling
The quality of the seedling directly affects tree growth and yield. Choose healthy, grafted, two-year-old seedlings with a well-developed root system.
Signs of a healthy seedling:
- Roots are free of mold and damage.
- Bark is smooth and uncracked.
- A visible grafting point is present.
- 3–5 main branches (scaffold limbs).
- Height of about 120–150 cm.
Buy from trusted, preferably local nurseries whose plants are adapted to your climate.
Step-by-Step Guide to Planting an Apricot
- Create a mound in the center of the hole.
- Place the seedling so its roots spread over the mound.
- Backfill with soil, tamping lightly in layers.
- The root collar should be 3–5 cm above soil level.
- Water the tree with 2–3 buckets of water.
- Mulch the base with sawdust, peat, or straw.
- Install a support to prevent the tree from breaking in the wind.
Essential Post-Planting Care Tips
Caring for the apricot tree in its first year is critical. Avoid soil drying, watch for pests and weeds, and ensure the tree is settling in well.
Post-planting care includes:
- Watering: Once every 7–10 days in dry weather.
- Mulching: Helps retain moisture and reduce overheating.
- Pruning: Begin forming the crown in the spring of the following year.
- Fertilizing: Not needed in the first year if fertilizers were added during planting.
- Winter protection: Wrap the trunk, apply whitewash, cover with spruce branches.
Spring vs. Fall Apricot Planting
| Parameter | Spring Planting | Fall Planting |
|---|---|---|
| Suitable regions | All, especially northern | Southern, with mild winters |
| Planting period | March–April | October |
| Risks | Drought in summer | Freezing in winter |
| Root adaptation | Better for winter survival | Risky during harsh winters |
| Recommendation | Suitable for all gardeners | Best for experienced ones |
Tips for Achieving a Stable Apricot Harvest
To enjoy large, sweet apricots every year, follow not only planting techniques but also choose disease- and frost-resistant varieties. Timely pruning and fertilizing are also crucial.
Helpful tips:
- Choose varieties suited to your region.
- Apply spring whitewash to protect the trunk from sunburn.
- Harvest on time — overripe fruits store poorly.
- Perform sanitary pruning in late fall or early spring.
Earlier we wrote about how to plant peas in spring.