Apricot trees thrive in warm, sunny conditions and can be grown both in the ground and in large containers. With proper care, they’ll reward you with delicious fruit within 2–4 years.
Best Apricot Varieties for Home Gardeners
| Variety | Type | Self-Pollinating? | Chill Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moorpark | European | Yes | ~600–700 hrs | Large, sweet, very flavorful |
| Tilton | European | Yes | ~600 hrs | Excellent for drying or eating fresh |
| Katy | Hybrid | Yes | ~300 hrs | Early ripening, great for warm climates |
| Gold Kist | Hybrid | Yes | ~300 hrs | Ideal for container growth |
| Chinese Apricot | Hybrid | Yes | ~700 hrs | Hardy, late blooming (frost-tolerant) |
🧠 Chill hours = number of hours below 45°F required for proper flowering and fruiting.
Growing Apricot Trees in Containers
What You’ll Need:
- A large pot (minimum 20 inches wide & deep)
- Well-draining soil (sandy loam + compost)
- A sunny location (6–8 hours of sunlight/day)
- Self-pollinating dwarf variety (recommended)
How to Plant:
- Fill the container with loamy soil mixed with compost.
- Place tree with the graft union above the soil line.
- Water thoroughly and add 2–3 inches of mulch on top (keep away from trunk).
- Ensure good sunlight and airflow year-round.
- Stake the tree if needed until it’s strong enough to stand independently.
Growing Apricot Trees in the Ground
Site Selection:
- Full sun (6–8 hours daily)
- Well-draining soil (pH 6.0–7.5)
- Avoid frost pockets and waterlogged areas
How to Plant:
- Dig a hole twice as wide and same depth as the root ball.
- Backfill with soil mixed with compost.
- Water deeply after planting.
- Add mulch but keep it away from the trunk.
Apricot Tree Care
Sunlight:
- Needs at least 6 hours of direct sun daily
- South or southwest exposure is ideal
Watering:
- Water deeply once a week during the growing season
- More frequent watering in pots or hot weather
- Reduce watering in fall to prepare for dormancy
Fertilizer:
- Apply a balanced (10-10-10) fertilizer in early spring
- Repeat in late spring and again in summer if needed
- Avoid fertilizing after midsummer
Pruning:
- Prune in late winter or early spring
- Remove dead or crossing branches
- Create an open center to allow light and airflow
Common Pests & Problems
| Issue | Symptoms | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Curling leaves | Neem oil or insecticidal soap |
| Brown rot | Brown, sunken fruit spots | Remove affected fruit; use fungicide |
| Shot hole disease | Holes in leaves | Prune infected branches and spray |
| Birds & squirrels | Eaten fruit | Use netting during fruiting season |
Fruiting & Harvesting
- Apricot trees typically begin fruiting in 2–4 years.
- Fruit ripens in mid to late summer depending on variety.
- Pick when the fruit is golden, slightly soft, and sweet-smelling.
- Harvest carefully — apricots bruise easily.
Tips for Success
- Choose a self-pollinating dwarf or semi-dwarf variety for containers
- Prune yearly to shape and encourage airflow
- Repot container trees every 2–3 years or when root-bound
- Use mulch to conserve water and prevent weeds
- Be aware of late spring frosts — they can damage blossoms
Climate Considerations
- Apricots do well in USDA zones 5–9.
- In colder regions, choose late-blooming varieties like Chinese Apricot.
- In very warm regions, choose low-chill varieties like Katy or Gold Kist.
Final Thoughts
Apricot trees are a beautiful and rewarding addition to any home garden or patio. With their spring flowers and sweet summer fruit, they provide beauty, productivity, and delicious returns. With just one tree and a sunny spot, you can grow your own apricots at home.