How to Plant Apricot Tree from a Seed

Apricot trees are considered as one of the most rewarding fruit trees to grow in your backyard. Not only do they produce delicious and nutritious fruits, but they also add a graceful and aesthetic touch to your landscape. If you're interested in adding an apricot tree to your garden, planting one from a seed is a great option. In this post, we will guide you on how to plant an apricot tree from a seed in six easy steps.

Step 1: Obtain Apricot Seeds

The first thing you need to do is to obtain apricot seeds. You can either extract them from a ripe apricot fruit or buy them from a gardening store. If you're using apricots from the grocery store, make sure they are ripe and have been left to soften for a day or two at room temperature. Once you have the seeds, clean and dry them before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Prepare Planting Containers

The next step is to prepare the planting containers. You can use seedling trays or small pots to plant your apricot seeds. Make sure that the containers have drainage holes and are filled with a potting mix that is rich in organic matter. Moisten the potting mix but avoid making it waterlogged.

Step 3: Plant the Seeds

Now it's time to plant the apricot seeds. Place one seed in each container and cover it with a quarter-inch layer of potting mix. Firmly press the potting mix down to ensure that the seed is in contact with the soil. Water lightly to settle the potting mix.

Step 4: Provide Proper Care

Apricot seeds require proper care to germinate and grow into healthy seedlings. Keep the containers in a warm, bright location that receives plenty of sunlight. Water the seeds regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering as this can cause the seeds to rot. Once the seedlings emerge, thin them to one per container and fertilize them every two weeks.

Step 5: Prepare for Transplanting

Once the seedlings are three to four inches tall, they are ready to be transplanted into larger containers or into the ground. Choose a location that receives full sun and has well-drained soil. If planting into the ground, dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball of the seedling. Add compost to the bottom of the hole, place the seedling in the hole, and backfill it with soil.

Step 6: Maintain the Apricot Tree

After transplanting, it's crucial to ensure proper care and maintenance of the apricot tree. Water the tree deeply once a week, especially during the growing season. Mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture and prevent weed growth. Prune the tree regularly to maintain a healthy shape, and fertilize it annually with an all-purpose fertilizer.

In conclusion, planting an apricot tree from a seed can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. It takes some care and patience, but the result is a beautiful tree that produces delicious fruit. Follow the steps we've outlined above, and soon you'll be enjoying your fresh apricots right from your own backyard!