Anyway, growing an apricot tree from seed is an interesting project, as I have grown apricot tree from seed pit in Sydney, Australia.
 |
| Apricot tree |
Selection of Apricot Seeds For Germination
Growing apricot from seed needs proper seed selection.
- Only fresh fully ripe apricot seeds will germinate and sprout most reliably.
- Select apricot fruit with deep, golden-orange colour, slightly firm.
- Avoid fruit with any signs of damage.
Apricot Seed Preparation
Apricot seeds need a bit of preparation before planting to ensure successful germination. First, clean each pit in cool water to remove any sticky, sugary fruit residue. Then allow them to air-dry on a paper towel for a day or two. Apricot seeds are contained inside the pit. The pit serves to protect the seed inside and is so thick and tough that it sometimes prevents germination.
Opening Apricot Seeds
Lightly cracking the pit with a nutcracker or a pair of pliers will help the seeds sprout; just be careful not to fully break open the seed because that will damage the embryo. Apply just enough pressure to open a small crack on the edge. How to open apricot seeds youtube video
Apricot Seed Stratification- Chilling
- Apricot seeds need chilling for 2-3 months at temperature around 10°C (50°F) before planting.
- Take the seeds out from the pits carefully, without breaking or damaging the seeds.
- Put the seeds in a moistened paper towel or sphagnum moss and place inside the refrigerator. The seeds may sprout in the fridge if kept there for long time.
- You can just sow the seeds in pots during the winter months, the seeds will get natural chilling before sprouting.
 |
| Germinated Apricot Seed |
Apricot Seed Sowing
 |
| Apricot seedling, Apricot plant grown from seed |
- Put the chilled seed or sprouted seed in a small pot filled with free-draining soil. Sow the seeds about 1 inches deep.
- Place the pot outside in a sheltered warm bright location. They germinate best when daytime temperatures are about 30°C (86°F) and night time temperatures are above 20°C (68°F).
- Keep the soil evenly moist.
Apricot Tree Seedling Care
- Transplant the seedling when it develops a few sets of leaves to a bigger pot carefully, take care not to damage its taproot while planting. Keep the pot in partial shade for one full growing season before transplanting into the ground in a sunny location.
- Put a thick later of organic mulch, slightly away from the trunk.
When Apricot Tree will fruit
Apricot tree takes two to five years to bear fruit. Only one tree will produce fruits as it is self-pollinating.