Last Updated on September 16, 2022 by Griselda M.
Today, we’re going to be answering the question: how long does an apricot tree take to grow? And finding out about the USDA growing zones it thrives in. Let’s learn all about growing an apricot tree in this article.
Apricots are a type of fruit that grows in a large variety of sizes, shapes, and colors. They have thin, smooth skin that is yellow or orange, with red flesh. Apricots can be found in markets around the world.
In this article, we’ll talk about growing an apricot tree and which varieties you can choose from. We’ll also discuss the different growing zones for your apricot tree so that you can choose the best location for your new tree.
Growing an Apricot Tree
To grow an apricot tree, you will need to start with a seed. The seed is covered in a hard shell called a fruit coat. The shell is made of cellulose, which protects the seed. If the seed is damaged during the development process, the fruit coat will prevent the seed from germinating.
After you get the seed, you will need to soak it in water until it sprouts. You can plant your seeds from November through to March for the best results. Apricots are hardy fruit trees but they will not do well in temperatures below 28c. They are best grown in soil that is rich in nutrients.
Apricots thrive in soil that is well-drained. If you want to grow apricots, you will need to purchase a tree at a nursery or grow your seed.
Choosing an Apricot Variety
There are many different apricot varieties out there. You can choose from varieties such as dwarf, semi-dwarf, standard, and double.
Dwarf apricot trees are smaller than standard trees. You can find dwarf varieties in both single and multi-trunk forms. Single-trunk dwarf varieties are also called “mini” apricots.
A standard tree is taller than a dwarf tree, and it has more branches. If you want to grow your own apricot trees, you can buy dwarf or standard varieties at your local nursery or garden center.
Apricots can be eaten fresh, dried, frozen, canned, juiced, and even made into jam. They’re delicious when they’re ripe, but they can also be made into preserves and jellies. Dwarf apricot trees are the easiest to grow.
They don’t need much maintenance, and they can be grown in any kind of soil. They’re also good for small yards.
You won’t need to worry about them getting too tall. The problem with dwarf varieties is that they don’t produce as much fruit as other apricot varieties. That’s why they’re called “mini” varieties.
Standard trees are more productive than dwarf trees. The downside to standard varieties is that they take up more room than dwarf trees.
Standard trees also have more branches, which means more branches to prune. Dwarf trees don’t need as much pruning due to their size. Dwarf trees tend to be smaller than standard trees, and they’re easier to prune.
You might want to buy a dwarf tree if you have a small yard. Standard trees are great for larger yards.
How Long Does an Apricot Tree Take to Grow?
Once you plant either a standard or dwarf apricot tree, how long does an apricot tree take to grow to maturity? The first two years are the most critical ones in the growth of this tree. It takes about 2 years for the root system to develop and mature enough to support the tree. The tree can then produce fruits after about 3 to 5 years of growth.
Apricots are often planted as hedges, or as a living fence because they are fast-growing and can be trained into a variety of shapes. They are also ideal for smaller gardens where space is at a premium. Apricots are very sensitive to the weather, especially frost, so please bear this in mind.
If the soil is too wet or too dry, the trees will not produce fruit. You should plant your apricot tree in a well-drained, but moist area. The best time to plant an apricot tree is in November through to March.
Planting them in the spring or in the summer is not recommended. Apricots need full sun. They prefer to be planted in a sunny area and will require at least six hours of sunlight per day during the growing season.
Final Thoughts on How Long Does an Apricot Tree Take to Grow
To answer how long does an apricot tree take to grow, it’s best to learn the growth process of an apricot tree before you can try to answer this question. It is also important to note that different types of trees grow differently depending on the amount of nutrients provided.
Read more about How To Grow An Aspen Tree From A Branch?
Frequently Asked Questions
How Fast Do Apricot Trees Grow?
In the US, they can grow up to 20ft high in 3-5 years and have an average lifespan of 20-30 years.
Is the Apricot Tree Easy to Grow?
Yes. It is one of the easiest trees to grow and prune. It is a tree that does not require much maintenance. You will need to water it occasionally, but it can tolerate drought better than other fruit trees. You should also prune it regularly to keep it healthy and productive.
Where Do Apricots Grow Best?
Apricots like warmer climates, so they will do best in these climates. However, they can also survive in cooler areas with a little protection. They do well in raised beds, especially if you put mulch around the base of the trees. The mulch helps to keep the soil cool and moist.
How Long Does it Take For an Apricot Tree to Bear Fruit?
Apricots normally bear fruit in 2 to 3 years. You can get apricots from seed. A standard sized tree will product around 150-200lb of fruit per year, whereas the dwarf producing 50-100lb of produce.
Can You Grow Apricots Indoors?
You can grow apricots indoors. They do best in a greenhouse with lots of light. The plants are sensitive to the cold, so keep the temperature around 65 degrees Fahrenheit. The fruit is edible, but it will be very soft. You can eat them out of hand, or make apricot jam.