Q. We planted a bare root
tree Blenheim apricot earlier this year and it’s put out these pink leaves in
the spring. Is that a sign that it will flower or fruit or that we are watering
too much?
tree Blenheim apricot earlier this year and it’s put out these pink leaves in
the spring. Is that a sign that it will flower or fruit or that we are watering
too much?
 |
| New growth that is red on some varieties of apricot like Blenheim (Royal) |
A. No, that’s a typical color
of new growth for some apricots. It doesn’t indicate anything except new,
juvenile growth.
of new growth for some apricots. It doesn’t indicate anything except new,
juvenile growth.
Fertilize it once a year in January. Compost is best. If
you use woodchip mulch on the soil surface beneath the tree, you can get by
with using mineral fertilizers. Otherwise, use compost as a combination
fertilizer and for soil improvement.
you use woodchip mulch on the soil surface beneath the tree, you can get by
with using mineral fertilizers. Otherwise, use compost as a combination
fertilizer and for soil improvement.
Make sure the tree is
getting enough water. Lots of new growth in the spring is a good indicator that
it is. A new tree like that should get at least 5 gallons of water every time
you irrigate it. Slowly work your way up to 30 gallons by the time it’s is 5 to
6 years old. Blenheim is a good apricot in our climate and I’m sure you will
enjoy it if you like apricots.