Apricots are both decorative and productive trees, which are well suited to many temperate regions of New Zealand. They are relatively easy to grow and will produce loads of fruit year after year that can be enjoyed fresh from the tree, made in to jam, bottled for winter enjoyment, chutneyed, relished and dried.

Apricots are easy to espalier and look fantastic trained against a brick wall or a wooden fence. Train into the classic 'fan' shape and enjoy the decorative aspect as well as the fruit. A sunny, sheltered position is best - protected from Spring frosts. During the early stages of the tree's development, water well - and also during long dry periods. Apricots are one of the few trees that MUST be pruned during summer - as soon as the tree has finished producing fruit. This minimises the chance of infection. Most varieties are self fertile, but will produce heavier and more regular crops if pollinated by another variety.

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