Where Do Apricot Trees Grow
Planting an apricot tree in the courtyard not only allows for enjoying the flowers but also tasting the fruit. As a traditional fruit tree in our country, the apricot tree has developed a mature cultivation system from its native land (X-J) to the North China Plain. Mastering scientific management methods, even beginners can achieve abundant fruit on the branches.
Native Land and Suitable Areas
This Rosaceae tree is native to (X-J) Tianshan, and many existing centennial apricot forests are mixed with apple trees. Now, the golden planting belt at 40 degrees north latitude covers Hebei, Shandong, and Shanxi provinces, forming three major production areas. In the Northeast, cold-resistant varieties need to be chosen, while in Jiangsu and Zhejiang regions, attention should be paid to drainage during the plum rain season.
Soil Improvement Solutions
Sandy loam soil is best for root development, with a pH value of 6-7.5 being ideal. It is necessary to deeply turn the soil 60 cm before planting, and mix 8 tons of decomposed sheep manure per mu. For heavy clay soil, 30% river sand can be mixed in, and sulfur powder should be added to adjust the pH in saline-alkali soil.
Full Cycle Maintenance Tips
Key Points for Seedling Selection and Planting
Select 2-year-old strong seedlings with a diameter of more than 2 cm at 1 cm above the grafting point. When planting, keep the rootstock 5 cm above the ground and firm the backfilled soil in three layers. Immediately after planting, water thoroughly to stabilize the roots and cover with black plastic film to keep the soil warm and moist.
Precise Fertilization Plan
The first top dressing is applied when the new shoots are 15 cm long, with 300g of high-nitrogen compound fertilizer per plant. During the young fruit stage, spray 0.3% phosphorus potassium fertilizer on the leaves, and add calcium and magnesium fertilizer during the hard core stage. After harvesting, promptly supplement organic fertilizer to reserve nutrients for the next year.
Pruning and Shaping Techniques
Use a natural open canopy shape, keeping the main branch angle at 50-60 degrees. Remove the wild growth branches in summer and thin out the intersecting branches in winter. During the fruiting period, keep 120-150 fruiting branch groups per square meter to maintain ventilation and light.
From site selection and planting to harvest management, each step affects the yield of the apricot tree. Adjusting management measures based on regional characteristics can lead to abundant yields within three years. Regularly observing the tree's condition and promptly preventing and controlling gummosis and aphid damage will ensure the apricot tree is full of golden fruit every year.