Apricot trees are winter-hardy trees, fast growing and produce delicious, juicy fruit that can be picked and eaten straight from the tree.

Planting

Apricot trees are best planted during autumn, or anytime between Novembers – March. Apricot flowers are vulnerable to frost therefore grow best by a south-facing wall where it is sheltered and warm. This fruit tree is suitable for large containers; it thrives on deep, slightly alkaline soils and full sun.

Dig a hole, large enough to take the whole root with enough room to fully grow; it is also advisable to place a bucket of well-rotted organic material before planting the tree. If using a container, it is important to have many drainage holes; as apricot trees do not like too much water.

As apricot trees reach a height of around 3m, it is a idea to train the growth to be a bush; resulting in easier access to the fruit. This is achieved by cutting back the main stem to encourage growth of the sides, and then as it grows continuously remove any vertical branches.