Growing and Fertilizing Apricot Trees: A Beginner’s Guide
Have you ever tasted a juicy, ripe apricot? These little gems are a delicious and nutritious treat that you can easily grow in your own backyard. Apricot trees are relatively easy to care for, but there are a few things you need to know to ensure healthy, productive trees. One important aspect of apricot tree care is fertilization.
Growing Apricot Trees
Apricot trees can be grown in most parts of the United States, in USDA zones 5 through 8. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Unlike some other fruit trees, apricot trees do not need pollinators. Most varieties are self-pollinating, so you can get away with growing just one tree.
Fertilizing Apricot Trees
Fertilizing apricot trees is not always necessary, but it can help to improve growth and fruit production. If you see adequate growth in your tree, you may not need to feed it. Good growth is 10 to 20 inches (25 to 50 cm.) on new growth for young trees and 8 to 10 inches (20 to 25 cm.) for mature and older trees each year.
When to Fertilize Apricot Trees
If you do need to fertilize your apricot tree, the best time to do so is during the spring blooming season. Avoid fertilizing later than July, as this can encourage new growth that may not have time to harden off before winter.
How to Fertilize Apricot Trees
When fertilizing apricot trees, it is important to use a fertilizer that is specifically designed for stone fruit trees. These fertilizers will contain the right balance of nutrients that apricot trees need.
Apply the fertilizer along the dripline of the tree. The dripline is the circle around a tree under the tips of the branches. This is where rain drips down to the ground and where the tree will best absorb the nutrients applied.
For young trees, apply about one half to one cup (118 to 236 ml.) of fertilizer. For mature trees, apply one to two cups. Water the fertilizer in immediately to avoid nutrient loss.
Nutrient Deficiencies in Apricot Trees
In some cases, apricot trees may develop nutrient deficiencies. These deficiencies can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor soil conditions, over-watering, or under-fertilizing.
Some common nutrient deficiencies in apricot trees include:
- Nitrogen deficiency: Nitrogen is essential for plant growth and development. Nitrogen-deficient apricot trees will have stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and poor fruit production.
- Zinc deficiency: Zinc is essential for fruit production. Zinc-deficient apricot trees will have small, misshapen fruit with brown spots.
- Potassium deficiency: Potassium is essential for overall plant health. Potassium-deficient apricot trees will have weak growth, yellowing leaves, and poor fruit production.
If you suspect that your apricot tree has a nutrient deficiency, it is important to contact your local extension office for a soil analysis. This will help you to determine which nutrients your tree is lacking and how to correct the deficiency.
Conclusion
Apricot trees are a beautiful and productive addition to any home orchard. By following these tips on growing and fertilizing apricot trees, you can ensure that your trees are healthy and productive for many years to come.
