How to Grow and Care for an Apricot Tree

Apricot Tree (Prunus armeniaca) trees produce delicious summer fruit, and growing your own means enjoying them at peak ripeness—something store-bought apricots can’t always offer. If you live in a warmer part of the UK, especially the southeast, you can successfully grow apricot trees outdoors. In colder regions, it’s best to grow them in large pots and keep them sheltered during winter to protect their early blossoms from frost damage. When grown under the right conditions, an apricot tree can begin fruiting in two to three years and thrive for decades.

Apricot Tree Size and Rootstocks

Apricot trees come in various sizes, from compact 1.2-meter trees to larger ones reaching 5 meters, depending on the rootstock used. You can grow them as free-standing bushy trees or train them as fans against a wall. Fan-trained trees are available for purchase but can be pricey.

How to Grow an Apricot Tree

Apricots thrive in fertile soil with plenty of sunlight and shelter from harsh winds. If grown in a greenhouse or conservatory, they may require hand pollination. Thin out crowded or misshapen fruit early for better yields, and protect ripening fruit from birds and wasps using fine mesh.

For more fruit-growing guides, check out our articles on How to Grow Lemon Trees and How to Grow a Pear Tree from Seed.

Where to Plant an Apricot Tree

To successfully bear fruit, apricots require a period of winter chill, a warm, dry spring, and a hot summer. In the UK, plant them in sunny, sheltered spots, preferably against a wall. Avoid frost-prone areas, as cold air pockets can damage early blossoms. In colder regions, consider compact varieties that can be grown in large pots and moved indoors when needed.

Apricots prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a neutral to alkaline pH (6.5–8). Learn more about optimal soil conditions in our guide on How to Grow Apples.

How to Plant an Apricot Tree

For best results, plant apricots during their dormant season. Container-grown trees can be planted year-round if properly watered. Dig a hole wide enough for the roots to spread comfortably, ensuring the rootball sits level with the soil. Backfill, firm in well, and mulch with compost or bark to retain moisture and reduce weeds. Use a short stake for stability.

For potted trees, choose a sturdy container at least 45 cm wide and high, preferably made of heavy materials like terracotta to prevent tipping. Use a soil-based compost mixed with coarse grit for drainage.

Best Amazon Picks :

• Apricot Katy Tree
• Moorpark Apricot Tree
• TriStar Plants- Moorpark Apricot

How to Care for an Apricot Tree

Watering

During the first growing season, water thoroughly every few days during dry spells to encourage deep roots. Keep the base clear of weeds to reduce competition. For wall-trained trees, be mindful that soil near walls dries out faster. Potted apricots need regular watering throughout their lives—ensure excess water drains freely.

Feeding

Feed apricot trees annually in late winter with a potassium-rich fertilizer to support healthy growth and fruiting.

Pollination

Apricots flower in late winter or early spring, often before pollinators are active. If grown under cover or in an area with few bees, hand-pollinate flowers using a small paintbrush.

For more fruit-growing tips, explore our article on How to Grow a Pineapple.

Fruit Thinning

To ensure large, healthy fruit, thin apricots once they reach marble size. Remove misshapen fruits and space the rest about 8 cm apart.

Flower and Fruit Protection

Protect blossoms from frost using horticultural fleece, but remove it during the day to allow pollinators access. As fruits ripen, cover them with fine mesh to deter birds and wasps.

How and When to Prune an Apricot Tree

Once established, only fan-trained apricots require regular pruning to maintain shape and encourage new growth. Since apricots fruit best on two- to three-year-old wood, prune back up to half of the previous season’s fruit-bearing shoots to about 3 cm above a bud.

For bush trees, only remove dead, damaged, or overcrowded growth. Always prune in late spring or summer to avoid silver leaf disease.

Pests and Diseases

Apricot trees can be affected by bacterial canker, silver leaf, blossom wilt, and brown rot. Reduce disease risk by planting in suitable locations, providing proper care, and pruning in the correct season. If disease occurs, remove and dispose of infected shoots promptly.

Buying Apricot Trees

Apricot trees are available as bare-rooted plants (sold from November to March) or container-grown trees (available year-round). Bare-rooted trees must be planted while dormant, whereas potted trees can be planted anytime with proper care.

Best Apricot Varieties for the UK

• Flavorcot™ – Sweet, well-flavored fruit ripens in August (2.5m x 2.5m).
• Tomcot – Large, flavorful fruit in late July (4m x 3m).
• Sibley’s Patio Apricot Flavourcot & Tomcot – Specially grafted dwarf trees (1.2m x 1.2m).
• Moorpark – A historic variety with large, tasty fruit but prone to disease (4m x 2.5m).
• Golden Glow – British-bred variety suited to damp conditions, ripens in early August (3.5m x 2.5m).

For more fruit-growing inspiration, check out How to Grow Banana Plants.

By following these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to growing a thriving apricot tree and enjoying homegrown fruit for years to come!