How to Grow Apricot Tree from Seeds to Fruit Indoor

Apricots, with their sweet and tangy flavor, are a delightful fruit that can be grown indoors with the right care and attention. While apricot trees are traditionally grown outdoors, it is entirely possible to cultivate them indoors, even if you have limited space. In this guide, we’ll explore the steps you need to take to grow apricots from seeds to fruit right in the comfort of your home.

Selecting the Right Variety:
Before you begin growing apricots indoors, it’s essential to choose a variety that is well-suited for indoor cultivation. Look for dwarf or patio varieties, as they tend to stay smaller and are more suitable for container growing. Some popular indoor-friendly apricot varieties include ‘Pixie Cot’, ‘Tomcot’, and ‘Flavor Delight’.

Gathering Seeds:
If you have access to fresh apricots, you can collect seeds from ripe fruits. Simply remove the seeds from the fruits, wash them to remove any pulp, and allow them to air dry for a day or two. Alternatively, you can purchase apricot seeds from a reputable seed supplier or nursery.

Preparing the Seeds:
Before planting apricot seeds, it’s essential to stratify them to break their dormancy and encourage germination. To stratify apricot seeds, place them in a damp paper towel or a plastic bag filled with moist peat moss, and refrigerate them for about 8 to 12 weeks. This mimics the cold winter conditions that apricot seeds require to germinate.

Choosing the Right Container:
Select a large container with adequate drainage holes for planting your apricot seeds. Opt for a container that is at least 18 inches in diameter and depth to provide ample room for root growth. Make sure the container is made of a durable material like plastic or ceramic and has a tray to catch excess water.

Planting the Seeds:
Fill the container with well-draining potting mix, leaving about an inch of space from the rim. Plant the stratified apricot seeds about an inch deep in the soil, spacing them at least 4 inches apart. Gently water the soil until it’s evenly moist, but not waterlogged.

Providing Optimal Growing Conditions:
Place the container in a sunny location where your apricot tree will receive at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. If natural light is limited, you can supplement with grow lights to ensure adequate light exposure. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, watering whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Pruning and Training:
As your apricot tree grows, prune it regularly to encourage a strong, bushy shape and remove any dead or diseased branches. You can also train the tree to grow against a trellis or support structure to save space and promote upward growth.

Pollination:
Since apricot trees are self-pollinating, you don’t need to worry about cross-pollination indoors. However, you may need to hand-pollinate the flowers to ensure fruit set. Simply use a small paintbrush to transfer pollen from one flower to another, gently brushing the center of each flower.

Harvesting Apricots:
With proper care, your indoor apricot tree should start producing fruit within 3 to 5 years. Harvest apricots when they are fully ripe but still firm to the touch. Simply twist the fruit gently to remove it from the tree, being careful not to damage the branches or buds.

Growing apricots indoors from seeds to fruit is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy the fresh, homegrown fruit year-round. By following these steps and providing your apricot tree with the right care and attention, you can successfully cultivate a bountiful harvest of apricots right in your own home. So why not embark on this fruity adventure and start growing your own apricots indoors today?