How to Grow Apricot Paramount

Tree is leafless in winter, showing bare branches. Buds begin to swell in late winter as temperatures warm.

Prune dormant wood in late winter before bud break. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches. Shape for an open center. Apply dormant oil spray to control overwintering pests.

Delicate white to pale pink flowers emerge before or as leaves develop. Flowers appear in clusters along branches.

Protect from late spring frosts, which can kill flowers and ruin the crop. Avoid pruning once buds swell. Thin flower buds if excessive to ensure larger fruit. Provide pollinator access.

Small green fruit develops where flowers were. Fruits grow rapidly and change color from green to yellow-orange.

Thin fruits to 4-6 inches apart when egg-sized (1 inch diameter) to encourage larger fruit and reduce branch breakage. Apply consistent water. Monitor for pest activity. Support heavy-laden branches with props.

Fruit transitions from pale yellow to deep golden-orange. Sugar content increases, and fruit softens slightly. Aroma intensifies.

Reduce watering slightly but maintain consistent moisture to prevent fruit cracking. Avoid overhead watering to reduce disease. Monitor ripeness daily. Birds may begin feeding; use netting if desired.

Fruit is fully ripe, fragrant, and yields slightly to hand pressure. Color is deep orange, sometimes with red blush.

Harvest ripe fruit gently, twisting or cutting stem. Mature apricots do not ripen further after picking. Harvest every 2-3 days at peak ripeness. Remove any fallen fruit to reduce pest habitat.