The Apricot Harvest in Michigan

Regional Specialties

• Several apricot cultivars have been developed for northern regions, including in Michigan which ranges from USDA zones 4a to 6b. "Goldcot," hardy throughout USDA zones 4 to 6, is first to be harvested in early July. "South Haven 50" and "53" aren’t far behind, followed by "Curtis," "Sungold" and "Moongold," all which thrive in Michigan's USDA zones 5 and 6. Late-blooming types offer best chances for a successful harvest because they're less vulnerable to early heat waves and late freezes that cruelly nip premature blossoms in the buds.

Cool Climate Cultivation

• Pruning techniques for Michigan trees are different than the open-center style used in milder regions. A network of interior branches is left, allowing light and air to circulate while providing greater stability. Fruit is grown and harvested from the spurs of mature branches. Immature apricot trees take two to three years to bear fruit.

Growing Your Own

• One or a row of apricot trees make a beautiful statement in your yard, with gorgeous blossoms in spring, attractive foliage throughout growing season and tasty pickings in mid-to-late summer. Planting on the north side of a building or slope is another tactic used to prevent trees from warming up and budding before cold weather is truly finished for the year. A standard Michigan apricot tree will yield 3 to 4 bushels of fruit. A dwarf variety produces 1 to 2 bushels. Northern apricot trees have a life expectancy of 15 years or more, growing about 20 feet tall.

Harvest Helpers

• Picked green fruit won’t ripen sufficiently, so hold off the harvest until it colors. Tightly packed trees loaded with excess fruit can strain branches and diminish crop quality. Thin green apricots to 2-to- 4 inches apart when they reach a 1-inch diameter. If you crave fresh from the tree treats but lack your own, check with Michigan orchards or the Michigan Department of Natural Resources tourism services for updated harvest times, which can vary by a couple of weeks depending on annual weather conditions. "U-pick" and roadside fruit stands abound during harvest season.