Apricot trees are definitely the “divas” of the home orchard. They’re a bit more sensitive than your average apple tree and really crave a cozy, sheltered spot with a mild climate to truly thrive and produce fruit. If you’re thinking about adding one to your backyard, here’s everything you need to know about picking the perfect home for your apricot tree!
Finding the Sweet Spot
If there’s one thing apricot trees love, it’s heat. These trees are sun-worshippers! They do best when planted in a protected area—think right up against a south-facing house wall or a garage. This setup acts like a shield, protecting your tree from harsh winds and heavy rain that can snap delicate branches.
Another pro tip: planting near a wall helps the leaves dry off faster after a storm, which is a huge help in preventing fungal diseases. Plus, that stone or brick wall will soak up the sun during the day and radiate warmth back to the tree at night. This little bit of extra heat can be a lifesaver when those tricky late-spring frosts threaten your blossoms.
The Ideal Location Checklist
- Plenty of warmth
- Full sun
- Protection from the wind
Enjoying Your Harvest
When your tree is happy with its location, you can look forward to delicious fruit every year. Just a heads-up: apricots are known for “biennial bearing” (or something close to it), meaning they often put out a massive, bumper crop every two or three years.
Since fresh apricots don’t stay good for very long once they’re picked, you’ll want to have a plan. I always recommend canning your apricots to lock in that summer sweetness. It’s the best way to make sure you have a supply of homegrown treats to last you all through the winter!
Growing Your Own from Scratch
Feeling adventurous? You can actually grow a brand-new tree using a pit from your harvest! If you want to try propagating an apricot tree from a seed, you can plant a fresh pit directly in the soil. Some gardeners like to gently crack or sand the hard outer shell first to help the little sprout inside break through more easily. It’s a fun project for any green thumb!
