How to Plant an Apricot Tree from Seed

Apricot trees can be a beautiful addition to your backyard orchard. While you can purchase an already grown tree, planting an apricot tree from a seed can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to enjoy this delicious fruit. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to plant an apricot tree from seed:

Step 1: Collecting Seeds

The first step is to collect apricot pits, which are the seeds inside of the apricot fruit. Save the pits from ripe apricots by washing them, then letting them dry out completely for a week. Make sure to choose healthy and ripe apricots to ensure the best chance of growth.

Step 2: Preparing Seeds

After the apricot pits have dried out, crack them open to reveal the seed inside. You can use a nutcracker or hammer to gently crack open the hard shell. Once the hard shell is cracked, remove the seed from inside without damaging it.

Step 3: Stratification

Apricot seeds require stratification, which is a process of exposing the seeds to cold temperatures for a certain period. The easiest way to stratify apricot seeds is to place them in a plastic bag with some moist vermiculite. Put the bag in a refrigerator and leave it for about 8-12 weeks. Check the bag regularly to ensure that the vermiculite is still moist, and no mold has developed.

Step 4: Preparing Soil

In the meantime, prepare the soil where you plan to plant the seedling. The ideal soil for apricot trees is well-drained, loose, and rich in organic matter. You can add compost or aged manure to the soil to enrich it. Make sure the soil is prepared in a location with full sunlight.

Step 5: Planting Seeds

Once the stratification process has finished, the seeds are ready to be planted. Plant the apricot seeds about an inch deep into the soil. Water the soil to ensure that it is moist but not soaking wet. Cover the soil with a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and protect the seedling from harsh weather conditions.

Step 6: Caring for Seedlings

Apricot seedlings require plenty of water and nutrients, especially during their first year of growth. Keep the soil moist but not soaking wet, and fertilize the seedling with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Make sure the seedling gets full sunlight and protect it from harsh winds by planting it in a sheltered area.

Conclusion

Planting an apricot tree from seed can be a fun and rewarding process. While it may take several years for the apricot tree to mature and produce fruit, the time and effort spent nurturing the seedling will be well worth the reward of harvesting your very own apricots. Follow these steps, and you will be well on your way to growing a healthy apricot tree from seed!