UC Master Gardeners, Santa Clara County, CA
University of California
UC Master Gardeners, Santa Clara County, CA

Apricot

Garden Help > Fruits & Nuts

UC Links 
Apricots on tree

How to grow: UC Backyard Orchard, Apricots

Pest management: Apricots, also see Plum Bud Gall Mite Fact Sheet

Summer pruning overview: It's Time to Prune Apricot & Cherry Trees

The Basics

When to plant: January–early February

Harvest window: June–July, depending on variety

Fertilization: Nitrogen in spring, additional applications based on tree age, health, and soil quality

Annual care overview:

  • Prune in summer (after harvest - early September) 
  • Thin fruits to about 4–6" apart when they grow to 1/2 inch diameter
  • Monitor and control for common pests & diseases, such as brown rot, peach twig borer, shot hole fungus, and San Jose scale

Some Recommended Varieties for Santa Clara County*

Autumn Royal, Blenheim, Moorpark, Tilton

* Many other varieties may also do well here in Santa Clara County. This list is based on UC Master Gardener trials, taste tests, and feedback from local growers.

Webmaster Email: webmaster-mgsantaclara@ucanr.edu