Description
The Palsteyn Apricot (Prunus armeniaca)is a proudly South African cultivar and a must-have in any garden. The fruits are orange on the inside and outside, with a a non-melting firmly textured flesh, and an excellent taste.
Most varieties of apricots are self-fruiting, which means you don’t need two trees to get fruit. However, growing two apricots may mean you get a higher yield.
Position
Hot climates, such as Durban, are unsuitable for growing apricot trees.
Plant your apricot tree in a spot where it will get full sun for the best fruits. They can tolerate some shade, but they will yield more fruit and grow more vigorously with more sun.
Size
Apricot trees can grow to about 8 to 10 metres tall. Plan the site before planting them, keeping the tree away from external walls, electrical lines and other trees. Plant it in a protected area, if possible, as strong winds can damage branches and leaves.
Soil Type
Apricot trees can thrive in most well-draining soil types, but prefer slightly acidic soil. Loosen the ground in the area before planting it about 1.5 metres deep in your normal garden soil.
Mulch
Add a thick layer of pine bark mulch, keeping it about 20 to 30 centimetres away from the tree trunk itself (any closer and it may cause excess moisture to damage the trunk). This will retain the soil’s moisture and prevent weeds from taking over.
Fertilising
Use our slow-release nitrogen-rich Berry/All-plant Fertiliser. For young trees, apply 1 teaspoon every 4-5 months.
Watering
Water your apricot tree every second day after transplanting it for the first week. Thereafter, reduce your watering to twice a week in dry or hot weather for the next 2 to 3 months. Water it every couple of weeks in cooler weather if there is no rain. Too much water can cause root rot but do not allow the roots to dry out completely.
Pruning
Prune the top and sides of your apricot tree regularly in spring and early autumn to prevent it from growing too large. This will also allow light into the centre of the tree, making it easier to harvest the fruit. Cut out dead or diseased branches completely whenever they appear and dispose of them immediately.
Harvesting
Your apricots are ready to pick when they have changed colour from green to yellow-orange and are still firm but give in under a little pressure. If you keep them at room temperature and away from direct sunlight, they will ripen after being picked.
