'Alfred' Apricot Tree

Shows good resistance to the main pests and diseases for apricots. You may see some damage from aphids and caterpillars, which can both be washed away with soapy water. Birds will eat the apricots if given the chance so take steps to prevent this like using a fruit net or bird scarers. Reduce the risk of bacterial canker by pruning to improve airflow and remove rotting organic matter nearby.

Water in thoroughly when planting. For bare root trees, you won't need to water regularly, only in dry spells when needed. You should be able to tell because the leaves will start to wilt and droop. If a container grown tree, it will need more watering until its roots are established. It should be watered every other day or so for the first few months. Then reduce to twice a week until autumn. In the second year it should have an established enough root system to support itself, just water when required as explained above for bare roots. When watering a tree it is important to give a good soaking. It is better to water heavily and less frequently than little and often as this encourages the roots to grow down into the ground.

Plant where the tree will receive around 6-8 hours of sunlight daily in spring/summer.

Will tolerate less than perfect conditions but may not fruit too well. Will struggle in poorly draining soil.

Apricot trees get all the nutrients they need from the soil - if yours is poor quality, mix in some compost when planting.