Position
Plant your apricot tree in a spot that will get full sun for the best fruits. They can tolerate some shade, but they will yield more fruit and grow more vigorously with more sun.
Size
Apricot trees can grow to about 8 to 10 mts tall. Plan the site before planting them, keeping the tree away from external walls, electrical lines, and other trees. Plant it in a protected area, if possible, as strong winds can damage branches and leaves.
Soil Type
Apricot trees can thrive in most well-draining soils but prefer slightly acidic soil. Loosen the ground in the area before planting the tree, about 1.5 mts deep in your regular garden soil.
Mulch
Add a thick layer of pine bark mulch, keeping it about 20 to 30 cms away from the tree trunk (any closer may cause excess moisture to damage the trunk). The mulch will retain moisture in the soil and will prevent weeds from taking over.
Watering
Water your apricot tree every-second day after transplanting it for the first week. Thereafter, reduce watering to twice a week in dry or hot weather for the next 2 to 3 months. Water it every couple of weeks in cooler weather if there is no rain. Too much water can cause root rot but do not allow the roots to dry out completely.
Fertilising
Use our slow-release nitrogen-rich all plant fertiliser Apply 1 teaspoon every 4-5 months. The roots will absorb what they required.
Pruning
Prune the top and sides of your apricot tree regularly in spring and early autumn to prevent it from growing too large. Pruning will also allow light into the tree’s center, making it easier to harvest the fruit. Cut out dead or diseased branches completely whenever they appear and dispose of them immediately.
Harvesting
Your apricots are ready to pick when they have changed colour from green to yellow-orange and are still firm but give in under a bit of pressure. If you keep them at room temperature and away from direct sunlight, they will ripen after being picked.
