Apricots can be grown as a bush tree in warm, sheltered areas, in other areas the apricot is best grown as a fan-trained tree on a south facing or a west facing wall.
Apricots can flower as early as February, therefore they require protection from strong winds and early frosts. Apricots are grown best in deep, slightly alkaline soils but will tolerate a wide range of well-drained soils (pH 6.5-7.5)
Rootstocks
Rootstocks in order of their vigour are outlined below: –
Torinel – Dwarf. An ideal rootstock for the smaller garden. It needs to be grown in fertile and weed-free soil. It will reach a height of 2.4-3m. Trees grown on this rootstock will bear fruit within 3 years. Use for dwarf bushes, dwarf pyramids, and small fans.
WA-VIT – Semi-Vigorous. A robust disease resistant, free standing and non suckering rootstock which is proven to suit a wide range of soils and conditions. Its around 10% smaller than SJA. Trees grown on this rootstock will bear fruit within 3 years. Use for bushes, half-standards, and fans.
St. Julian A – Semi-Vigorous. A good rootstock for most soils. Trees grown on this rootstock will reach a height of 3-3.5m. Trees grown on this rootstock will bear fruit within 4-5 years. Use for bushes, half-standards, and fans.
