Harcot Apricot Tree

Harcot apricot trees are prized for their cold hardiness and exceptional fruit quality. The medium-sized fruit has bright orange skin with a reddish blush and firm, sweet, aromatic flesh. Harcot is excellent for fresh eating, canning, and drying. This variety is self-fruitful and thrives in full sun with well-draining soil, requiring moderate chill hours—making it suitable for cooler climates with late frosts. The tree blooms later than other varieties, helping to avoid frost damage to blossoms. With its reliable yields, disease resistance, and delicious fruit, Harcot is a valuable addition to any orchard, especially in regions with challenging spring weather.

Semi-dwarf on Citation rootstock.

• Zones: 5-9
• Chill hours: 700-900
• Bloom Time: Late (Based on typical Central Valley California weather)
• Harvest: June 5 - June 15
• Looks: Medium to large fruit often blushed with red.
• Personality: Sweet, juicy, rich flavor one of the best.
• Facts of note: Harcot is considered to be one of the finest tasting apricots today. Harcot is a tremendously hardy selection introduced by the Harrow Research Station in Canada. The range of adaptability of this variety is one of its primary appeals, doing well in zones 5 through 9. Once established you can expect consistent production even in areas considered marginal for Apricots. A good choice for colder climates where a late frost could devastate other apricots varieties. This is a beautiful, large, yellow-orange fruit with a very sweet, very rich traditional apricot flavor. Large yellow fruit that has juice running down your are when fully ripe. The tree is a robust deep green with a rounded canopy . The Spring flush of foliage is a beautiful red that adds to the ornamental appeal. Harcot apricot is good for canning, cooking, or freezing and of course fresh eating.
• Pollination: Self-fruitful.

Harcot Apricot Tree: A Delectable Addition to Your Orchard

Apricot enthusiasts and orchard owners alike will appreciate the Harcot Apricot tree for its exceptional fruit quality, striking appearance, and unique characteristics. This semi-dwarf apricot tree is a valuable addition to any garden or orchard, offering not only delicious apricots but also an ornamental presence.

Taste Sensation: A Flavorful Delight

The Harcot Apricot is renowned for its outstanding flavor, making it a sought-after choice among fruit connoisseurs. The fruit boasts a delightful combination of sweetness and tanginess, striking a perfect balance that titillates the taste buds. Its juicy, tender flesh offers a burst of fruity goodness with each bite, making it a favorite for fresh eating, preserves, jams, and baking.

One of the key highlights of the Harcot Apricot's taste is its low acidity, which distinguishes it from many other apricot varieties. This low acidity contributes to its smooth and mild flavor profile, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a less tart apricot experience. The apricots are typically medium to large in size, with a vibrant orange hue that adds to their visual appeal.

Aesthetic Charm: Beauty in Your Orchard

The Harcot Apricot tree is not just a bearer of delicious fruit but also an ornamental gem for your orchard. This semi-dwarf tree displays a graceful and compact growth habit, reaching a height of approximately 10 to 12 feet at maturity. Its attractive canopy features dense, dark green foliage that provides a stunning backdrop for the apricots.

During the spring, the Harcot Apricot tree bursts into a dazzling display of fragrant pink and white blossoms. These delicate flowers not only add to the tree's visual charm but also attract pollinators, ensuring a bountiful harvest. As the season progresses, the tree's foliage remains lush and vibrant, creating an appealing contrast against the bright apricot fruits.

Distinguishing Characteristics: What Sets Harcot Apart

While there are numerous apricot varieties available, the Harcot Apricot stands out for several reasons:

1. Low Chill Requirement: Harcot Apricots have a relatively low chill requirement, which means they can thrive in regions with mild winters. This adaptability allows a broader range of gardeners to enjoy their delectable fruit.

2. Self-Fertile: The Harcot Apricot tree is self-fertile, which means it does not require a pollinator tree to set fruit. This convenience makes it an excellent choice for smaller gardens or orchards where space may be limited.

3. Disease Resistance: This apricot variety demonstrates good resistance to common apricot diseases, including brown rot and bacterial canker. This resilience makes it easier to maintain and less prone to disease-related issues.

4. Consistent Fruit Production: Harcot Apricots are known for their reliable and consistent fruit production. You can expect a plentiful harvest year after year, provided the tree is well-cared for.

The Harcot Apricot tree is a valuable addition to any orchard or garden, offering a delectable fruit with a balanced flavor profile, an attractive appearance, and unique characteristics that set it apart from other apricot varieties. Whether you are a seasoned orchardist or a novice gardener, the Harcot Apricot tree is sure to delight your senses and provide you with years of fruit-bearing enjoyment.

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