Review and cultivation of the best early apricot varieties

There are early apricot varieties suitable for growing in a variety of climates. To determine which one is best, it's worth first learning about the advantages and disadvantages, as well as the growing requirements, of each.

Content

1 Features of growing early varieties
2 Review of the best varieties
3 Video: "Apricot Care"

Features of growing early varieties

First of all, it's worth noting that the common apricot, with late or mid-season ripening fruit, differs from early varieties. The Melitopol Early apricot and other varieties that produce ripe fruit as early as July require special care. Early varieties are sensitive to temperature fluctuations. They are generally not resistant to severe frosts, and therefore, if not properly cared for, such a plant may not survive a cold, long winter.

Proper care is essential during cultivation. Regular pruning, fertilization, and pest control are essential. Early-bearing apricot varieties require pruning once a year. This is necessary to ensure rapid development of large shoots. Pruning is recommended when the ambient temperature does not drop below 5°C (41°F). Summer pruning is best done in August.

The optimal irrigation for such varieties is through ring ditches. The first watering is done before flowering. The second watering is done during the period of intensive shoot growth. The third watering is done approximately 10 days before the fruit begins to ripen.

Experts recommend preparing the planting hole in the fall. Place drainage at the bottom and add organic fertilizer. Additional fertilizer will need to be added periodically during the growing season. In the spring, use liquid chicken manure mixed with peat. In the fall, use organic fertilizer.

Early apricot varieties, such as the Voronezh Rumyany apricot, are susceptible to various diseases and pests. They are particularly susceptible to moniliosis and brown spot. To protect the plant, periodic spraying with copper-containing products is required.

There's no need to insulate this crop. However, based on the description of early apricot varieties, it can be concluded that some do require shelter in severe frosts. Simply clearing away the snow around the trunk is sufficient.

Review of the best varieties

Below is a description of the varieties that are particularly popular among gardeners:

Apricot Seraphim. This early apricot is characterized by medium growth. The trunk has characteristic cracks. The fruit buds are small. The leaves are medium-sized. This variety is self-sterile. The fruits are quite large and round. The flesh is tender, medium-firm. The flavor is sweet with a hint of tartness. The first harvest from this tree can be obtained 4 years after planting.
Iceberg apricot. This apricot variety is included in the Russian state register. It is considered one of the best for growing and producing a good harvest in the Moscow region. The tree grows moderately vigorously. The shoots are highly branched. The fruits are large, with juicy flesh. The skin is thin, and the pit is easily removed. The taste is rated at 4 out of 5.

Early Blush apricot. A characteristic feature of the fruit is its suitability for long-distance transportation. The fruits are large, averaging 50–60 g each. The flesh is orange and moderately aromatic. The fruits are very attractive and have excellent flavor. This variety, like the common apricot, is an excellent choice for growing for commercial purposes. Early Blush is recognized as one of the best early varieties and is popular among experienced gardeners. The harvest can be completed as early as late June.
Bryansky Ranniy apricot. Fruits are larger than average. Ripening time is not as early as that of the previous variety. The fruit's distinctive feature is its very sweet flavor. The tree is resistant to frost and various diseases.
Golden Nectar apricot. These trees reach a height of 2.5 m and are distinguished by their compact crown. The harvest can begin in late July. The fruit's distinctive feature is its delicious, melt-in-your-mouth pulp. It's very juicy and makes the most delicious compotes.
The Chelyabinsky ranny apricot. The Kichiginsky variety is considered the best pollinator for this plant. The fruits are medium-sized and have a characteristic blush on one side. The fruit has a sweet flavor, reminiscent of the common apricot.

The Voronezh Rumyany apricot is highly frost-resistant. Even a long winter won't harm this tree if properly cared for. It produces an excellent harvest. The quantity of ripe, tasty fruits directly depends on the soil composition and its regular, proper moisture. This variety requires a fair amount of care, so it's recommended to choose the Voronezh Rumyany apricot only if you have experience growing similar crops.
The Kyivsky Ranny apricot is a medium-sized tree that grows vigorously when young. It reaches a height of approximately 3 m. It flowers early. Ripe fruits are medium in size and can be round or slightly elongated. The skin is velvety. The pit is pointed and elongated. The fruits are sweet with a hint of tartness. Harvesting is possible as early as mid-July.

Video: "Apricot Care"

In this video, a specialist will explain how to plant and grow apricots in the garden.