How to Grow Apricots From Cuttings: Tips and Tricks

Apricots are a delicious and versatile fruit, enjoyed fresh, dried, or used in jams and preserves. While growing apricots from seed is possible, it’s a long and unpredictable process. A faster and more reliable method is to propagate them from cuttings. This article will guide you through the process of how to grow apricots from cuttings, ensuring a successful harvest in the years to come.

Understanding the Basics of Apricot Cuttings

Apricot cuttings are taken from mature, healthy branches of the parent tree. These cuttings are then placed in a suitable medium to encourage root development. This method of propagation allows you to replicate the genetic traits of the parent tree, ensuring you get fruits with the same flavor and characteristics.

Choosing the Right Cuttings

The success of your apricot cuttings depends heavily on the quality of the material you choose. Here’s what to look for:

• Healthy Branches: Select branches that are free from disease, pests, and damage. They should be vigorous and have a healthy green color.
• Mature Wood: Avoid using new, soft growth as it’s less likely to root. Aim for one-year-old wood, which is slightly hardened but still flexible.
• Dormant Season: The best time to take cuttings is during the dormant season, typically late fall or early winter. This is when the plant is resting and has stored energy reserves.

Preparing the Cuttings

Once you’ve selected the right branches, follow these steps to prepare your cuttings:

1. Cutting Length: Cut branches into 6-8 inches long sections.
2. Sharp Tools: Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to make clean cuts. Avoid crushing or damaging the bark.
3. Cut Angles: Cut the bottom end of the cutting at a 45-degree angle to maximize surface area for root development.
4. Remove Leaves: Remove all leaves from the bottom 2-3 inches of the cutting. If the cutting has leaves higher up, trim them by half to reduce water loss.
5. Prepare the Cuttings: You can either dip the cut ends in rooting hormone powder or solution to encourage root growth or leave them untreated.

Rooting the Cuttings

There are two main methods for rooting apricot cuttings:

1. Using a Rooting Medium:

• Choose a Medium: A mix of equal parts peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite is ideal. You can also use a pre-made rooting mix.
• Potting: Fill pots or trays with the rooting medium and make small holes to insert the cuttings.
• Planting: Place the cuttings in the holes, ensuring the bottom cut end is fully submerged.
• Watering: Water the cuttings thoroughly and keep the medium consistently moist.
• Humidity: Cover the pots with a clear plastic dome or wrap to create a humid environment. This helps retain moisture and promotes root development.

2. Using a Water Propagation Method:

• Water Jars: Fill clean glass jars or containers with water.
• Placement: Place the cuttings in the water, ensuring the bottom cut end is submerged.
• Change Water: Change the water every 2-3 days to prevent bacteria growth.
• Root Development: Once roots start to develop, you can transfer the cuttings to a rooting medium.

Caring for the Cuttings

• Light: Place the cuttings in a bright, indirect light location. Avoid direct sunlight, which can dry out the cuttings.
• Temperature: Maintain a consistent temperature of around 70-75°F (21-24°C) for optimal rooting.
• Watering: Keep the rooting medium or water moist but not soggy.
• Ventilation: If using a plastic dome or wrap, remove it for a few hours each day to allow for ventilation and prevent fungal growth.

Transplanting the Rooted Cuttings

Once the cuttings have developed a healthy root system, typically within 6-8 weeks, you can transplant them into larger pots or directly into the ground.

• Hardening Off: Before transplanting, gradually acclimate the cuttings to outdoor conditions by exposing them to increasing amounts of sunlight and temperature fluctuations over a period of 1-2 weeks.
• Planting Location: Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
• Planting Depth: Plant the cuttings at the same depth they were in the rooting medium.
• Watering: Water the newly transplanted cuttings thoroughly.

Nurturing Your New Apricot Trees

• Watering: Water regularly, especially during the first year after planting.
• Fertilizing: Fertilize the trees with a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer.
• Pruning: Prune the trees regularly to maintain their shape and encourage fruit production.
• Pest and Disease Control: Monitor the trees for pests and diseases and take appropriate control measures.

Reaping the Rewards: Harvesting Your Apricots

With proper care and attention, your apricot cuttings will develop into healthy trees that will bear fruit within 2-3 years.

• Fruiting Season: Apricots typically ripen in late spring or early summer.
• Harvesting: Pick the fruits when they are firm and slightly soft to the touch.
• Enjoy: Enjoy your delicious and homegrown apricots!

Beyond the Basics: Tips for Success

• Root Hormone: Using rooting hormone can significantly increase the success rate of rooting apricot cuttings.
• Cutting Time: While dormant cuttings are best, you can also try taking semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.
• Experimentation: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different rooting methods and techniques to find what works best for you.
• Patience: Growing apricots from cuttings takes time and patience. Be persistent and don’t give up if your first attempt isn’t successful.

Top Questions Asked

Q: What are the best varieties of apricots for growing from cuttings?

A: Some popular and easy-to-root apricot varieties include “Moorpark,” “Royal,” “Tilton,” and “Goldcot.”

Q: Can I use cuttings from a store-bought apricot tree?

A: It’s possible, but the success rate may be lower. Store-bought trees are often grafted, which means they may not root as easily.

Q: How long does it take for apricot cuttings to root?

A: It typically takes 6-8 weeks for apricot cuttings to develop a healthy root system. However, this can vary depending on the variety, rooting method, and environmental conditions.

Q: What are the signs of a successful rooting?

A: You’ll notice new growth emerging from the cuttings and a firm, healthy root system developing.

Q: What are the challenges of growing apricots from cuttings?

A: Challenges include low rooting success rates, susceptibility to diseases, and the need for proper care and attention.