Ever noticed those little apricot trees popping up in the wildest places? You might see one peeking out of a crack in the sidewalk or growing along a hiking trail, all because someone tossed a pit aside. If nature can do it that easily, you definitely can too! Here’s my step-by-step guide on how to grow your very own apricot tree right from the pit.
Getting That Pit to Sprout
First things first: timing is everything. The older an apricot pit gets, the harder it is to get it to sprout. Your best bet is to use a pit from a fresh, healthy apricot right after you’ve enjoyed the fruit. Keep in mind that the actual seed is tucked away inside that hard, almond-shaped shell. Here’s the best way to get things moving:
- First, make sure you scrub off every bit of leftover fruit flesh from the pit.
- Let it soak in lukewarm water for two to three days—this gives the germination process a serious jumpstart.
- Grab some sandpaper or a file and lightly scuff up the surface of the pit. This helps water reach the inner seed much faster.
- Plant the pit in loose, well-draining soil and keep it watered regularly.
Once enough moisture reaches the seed inside, it’ll start to swell and eventually crack the shell open on its own. Just a heads-up: this method can take a few months, so pack your patience!
The Shortcut: Planting the Seed Directly
If you’re like me and don’t want to wait months, there’s a faster way. You can actually bypass the shell entirely. Carefully crack the pit open with a nutcracker to get the seed out. Pro tip: if you pop the pit in the fridge for about a week beforehand, the shell usually opens much easier.
Plant the seed in a small pot with fresh soil. To keep the moisture levels steady (which is super important at this stage), stretch some plastic wrap over the top of the pot. You should see those first strong leaves poking through in about 10 to 14 days.
Caring for Your New Little Tree
Once your seedling has developed some sturdy leaves, move it to a bright windowsill. Just be careful with direct, scorching sunlight at first—it’s still a baby! If you live in a mild climate, you can eventually transplant it into your garden. You can usually expect to harvest your first homegrown apricots in about three to five years. Happy planting!
