Apricot Tree (Wenatchee)

Price range: $39.99 through $59.99

Wenatchee apricot—also known as Wenatchee Moorpark—is a classic Northwest apricot prized for its large fruit, rich flavor, and excellent performance in dry-summer climates.

  • Large apricot with rich, traditional flavor.
  • Long-standing Northwest favorite.
  • Excellent for fresh eating and preserving.
  • Semi-dwarf tree well suited to home orchards.
  • Self-fertile.
Add to Wishlist
Add to Wishlist
SKU: N/A Categories: , Tag:

Description

Wenatchee apricot, often referred to as Wenatchee Moorpark, is a classic American apricot closely associated with the dry, sunny conditions of central Washington. It has long been valued for its large fruit size, deep apricot flavor, and versatility in both fresh eating and preserving.

The fruit ripens to a deep golden-orange and develops a rich, full-bodied flavor when allowed to mature fully on the tree. Wenatchee is especially well known for its performance in drier summer climates, where disease pressure is lower and fruit quality reaches its peak.

Overview

  • Classic Northwest apricot with large fruit.
  • Rich, traditional apricot flavor.
  • Excellent for fresh eating, canning, and drying.
  • Well suited to dry-summer climates.
  • Self-fertile.

Growing Details

Latin Name: Prunus armeniaca ‘Wenatchee’
Site and Soil: 1/2 day to full day of sun; well-drained soil essential
Rootstock: Marianna 2624
Hardiness: USDA Zones 5–8
Bearing Age: 1–3 years
Size at Maturity: Typically 12–15 ft tall and wide (maintained smaller with pruning)
Bloom Time: Mid-spring
Ripening Time: Mid to late summer
Pollination Requirements: Self-fertile
Pests & Diseases: P

Planting & Care

At a Glance – Wenatchee Apricot

  • Sun: 1/2 day to full day
  • Soil: Well-drained soil
  • Water: Regular watering during establishment
  • Tree Size: Semi-dwarf
  • Pollination: Self-fertile
  • Harvest: Mid to late summer
  • Hardiness: Cold-hardy for an apricot

Planting & Care – Wenatchee Apricot

Site Selection

  • Choose a sunny site with excellent air circulation.
  • Avoid low areas where cold air and moisture collect.

Soil Preparation

  • Excellent drainage is critical for apricot success.
  • Plant on a slight mound in heavier soils if needed.

Planting Instructions

  1. Plant so the root flare sits at or slightly above finished soil level.
  2. Water thoroughly after planting.
  3. Mulch lightly, keeping mulch away from the trunk.

Watering & Fertilizing

  • Water regularly during the first growing season.
  • Once established, water deeply but less frequently.
  • Avoid excessive nitrogen.

Pruning

  • Prune annually to maintain an open canopy.
  • Remove dead or crossing branches.

Harvest & Use

  • Harvest when fruit is fully colored and slightly soft.
  • Ideal for fresh eating, drying, and preserves.

General Tips

  • Best results come from dry-summer regions with low humidity.
  • Thin fruit in heavy years to improve size and quality.