Choose Fresh Seeds Select ripe apricots with seeds that are fresh and not dried out. The quality of the seed plays a big role in the success of your tree. It's best to extract the seed from a fresh apricot, as older or dried seeds may have lower germination rates.
Clean and Dry the Seed Once you've removed the apricot pit, clean it by removing any fruit flesh left on the seed. Dry the seed in a cool, shaded spot for a few days. This prevents mold and helps the seed harden, making it easier to crack open.
Stratify the Seed Apricot seeds require cold stratification to break dormancy and trigger germination. To do this, place the cleaned seed in a damp paper towel or sand, and store it in the refrigerator for about 10-12 weeks. This simulates winter conditions, encouraging sprouting.
Crack Open the Seed After stratification, carefully crack open the seed with a nutcracker or pliers to reveal the embryo inside. Be gentle during this process, as you don’t want to damage the seed inside. This step isn’t always necessary, but it can increase the chances of successful germination.
Plant the Seed Once the seed is cracked open (or if you skipped that step), plant it in a small pot with well-draining potting soil. Place the seed about 2 inches deep in the soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and place the pot in a warm, sunny location.
Provide Proper Care Once your apricot tree begins to sprout, keep it in a sunny spot where it can receive plenty of light. Water regularly but avoid over-watering, as apricot trees are sensitive to soggy soil. Fertilize sparingly to avoid nutrient overload.
Transplant the Seedling After the seedling grows large enough (typically after 6-12 months), you can transplant it into a larger pot or directly into your garden. Choose a spot with full sunlight and well-draining soil, and space the tree at least 10-15 feet away from other plants.
Common Mistakes to Avoid – Not Stratifying Properly: Skipping the cold stratification process can result in poor germination. – Overwatering: Apricot trees don’t like soggy roots, so make sure the soil is well-draining and never waterlog the tree.
Impatience: Apricot trees grow slowly from seed, so be patient. Don’t expect fruit for several years (typically 3-5 years).